Liquid Crystal Patents (Class 40/448)
  • Patent number: 11886063
    Abstract: A display panel motherboard, a cutting method and a manufacturing method thereof, a display panel, and a display device are provided. The display panel motherboard includes at least three mother substrates, at least one display panel unit, and a cutting region. The at least three mother substrates are stacked with each other, at least a portion of the at least one display panel unit is surrounded by the cutting region, and an organic film layer is not disposed in at least two of the at least three mother substrates in the cutting region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shulei Li, Hua Huang, Zhao Kang
  • Patent number: 11878126
    Abstract: A mood sensing sharing device (MSSD) powered intervention system, which consists of a smart ring and a paired mobile device is disclosed. The smart ring comprises a mood stone which is configured to display a color that is indicative of a wearer's current emotional state. The smart ring sends current color information for the mood stone to an application on a paired mobile device. The application on the paired mobile device displays one or more guided complementary mitigations (e.g., deep breathing, yoga, meditation, prayer, or other similar relaxation technique) in response to the received mood stone color information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Inventor: Anthony L. Clark
  • Patent number: 11320575
    Abstract: A switchable directional backlight for a privacy display comprises a waveguide with first and second opposing input ends and a turning film arranged to collect light output from the waveguide for input into a spatial light modulator. The waveguide has an array of light deflecting features arranged on one guiding surface and an opposing planar surface. Light deflecting features are arranged such that light input from the first input end is output with a narrow angular range and light input from the second input end is output with a wide angular range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: RealD Spark, LLC
    Inventors: Graham J Woodgate, Michael G Robinson
  • Patent number: 11099431
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an edge type backlight unit and a display device including the same, and is capable of enabling other optical components including a reflecting plate, a diffusion plate, and a prism sheet to perform a light guiding function by eliminating a light guide plate from a backlight unit. Such an edge type backlight unit according to the present disclosure and the display device including the same are configured by eliminating the light guide plate so that there are effects in which the number of components and manufacturing costs may be reduced, and further an upper end of the display device may be slimmed down to improve an exterior quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: LG Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hansol Park, Junsik Kim, Beodle Shin
  • Patent number: 11046243
    Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to motor vehicles, and more particularly to motor vehicle and device for visually indicating a speed of the motor vehicle, and method thereof. In one embodiment, a method is provided for visually indicating a speed of a motor vehicle. The method includes receiving an instantaneous speed of the motor vehicle from one or more odometry devices of the motor vehicle and an instantaneous temperature on an external surface of the motor vehicle from one or more temperature sensors. The method further includes configuring one or more thermoelectric couple strips to regulate temperatures of one or more corresponding thermochromic paint coating layers disposed on the external surface of the motor vehicle, based on the instantaneous speed and the instantaneous temperature, to dynamically control indication of a color pattern associated with a range of instantaneous speed of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: Wipro Limited
    Inventors: Vijay Kumar, Thomas Chittakattu Ninan, Shagun Rai
  • Patent number: 10901548
    Abstract: A touch screen display includes a diffuser screen, a projector, a camera, an infrared (IR) light source, and a controller. The diffuser screen has a front surface and a rear surface. The projector is disposed to project images onto the rear surface of said diffuser screen, and the images are visible to a user through the diffuser screen. The camera is disposed behind the diffuser screen and aimed to capture images of a pointer near the front surface of the diffuser screen. The IR light source is disposed to direct IR light toward the rear surface of the diffuser screen, so the rays of incident IR light form an acute angle with respect to the rear surface of the diffuser screen, and so that any of the incident IR light reflected off the rear surface of the diffuser screen does not enter the camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: OmniVision Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Shenshen Liu
  • Patent number: 10792578
    Abstract: A smart toy platform including a plush character configured to receive a computing device having a display screen, such as a tablet computer or smartphone. The plush includes a pocket configured to receive the computing device. The plush can also include one or more display openings associated with the pocket such that, when the computing device is properly positioned within the pocket, at least a portion of the display screen of the computing device is visible from an exterior of the plush through the display opening(s). The plush can include one or more limbs or other appendages (e.g., arm or leg). One or more of the appendages can include one or more sensors that can communicate with the computing device to allow interaction between the user and the plush/computing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: Thinker-Tinker, Inc.
    Inventor: Yuting Su
  • Patent number: 10152291
    Abstract: A novel multi-display projection box includes a housing that is short and wide, a set of display panels, a set of projectors, and a controller. In a particular embodiment the set of display panels includes two display panels, each coupled to opposite sides of the housing. The set of projectors includes two projectors placed adjacent opposite side walls of the housing. One of the projectors projects a first image onto one of the display panels and the other projector projects a second image onto the other display panel. The first and second image can include product information corresponding to goods placed atop the projection box in a retail store.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: OmniVision Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Chun-Sheng Fan, Wei-Feng Lin
  • Patent number: 9644823
    Abstract: Display module mounting configurations and methods are disclosed. A frame for an LED module can comprise a first face configured for coupling with an LED circuit board, a second face configured for mounting to a support chassis, and one or more translating structures coupled to the second face. Each translating structure can be configured to engage a feature of the support chassis effectuating a translation of the LED module to avoid contact or interference with an adjacently-positioned LED module, mounted to the support chassis, during a mounting or a dismounting procedure. The LED module can also include one or more securing structures coupled to the second face. An LED module can include a circuit board including a plurality of LEDs, and the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan Hemiller, Ryan J. Nielsen, Shannon Lee Mutschelknaus
  • Patent number: 9557037
    Abstract: In an aspect, an apparatus and method are provided for creating an illusion of animation of a subject shape. The apparatus includes a screen, an intermediate body, a plurality of lights, and a controller in electronic communication with the plurality of lights. The controller is operable to turn the plurality of lights on and off in at least one of: a selected order, a combination, and a simultaneous operation of all of the lights. The intermediate body and the plurality of lights are positioned relative to said screen such that the intermediate body is positioned between the screen and the plurality of lights and such that said plurality of lights are operable to project a plurality of unique outlines of at least portions of the intermediate body onto the screen to generate an illusion of animation of the subject shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Spin Master Ltd.
    Inventors: Michael S. Gramelspacher, Rory T. Sledge
  • Patent number: 9317060
    Abstract: Provided herein is an electronic display assembly for use with a housing as well as a method for assembling an electronic display assembly within a housing. The assembly preferably contains an electronic display module having an electronic display secured within a mounting frame having a top and bottom surface. Top brackets and bottom brackets may be secured to the mounting frame and then secured to the interior of the housing. A front glass assembly can also be secured to the brackets. In some embodiments the housing may contain interior hangers which correspond to hangers that are fastened to the mounting frame of the electronic display module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: MANUFACTURING RESOURCES INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: William Dunn, Anthony Taylor
  • Patent number: 9218759
    Abstract: A method and a system to decrease the appearance of undesirable straight lines on a picture which are not part of the intended image, on announcement surfaces as street announcing boards, airport and train station announcers, street and indoors announcing boards, conference displays, TV and computer monitors and the like, which discloses a hexagonal module populated with individual pixels of light origination, the combination of many such hexagonal modules being able to substantially cover the desired surface. Within each module the light pixels are arranged in row-column, hexagonal close-packed or other industrially easy to produce order, yet breaking the display edge-to-edge row-column matrix arrangement used by previous display devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Inventors: Ching Nam Wong, Sergio Lara Pereira Monteiro
  • Patent number: 8935867
    Abstract: A light-emitting display system has an alignment mechanism to align or angle light-emitting tiles of the display. A first tile connects to a second tile by joining a first clamp portion on the first tile with a second clamp portion on the second tile. In an implementation, the alignment mechanism includes a replaceable angle adjustment insert that is inserted into at least one of the clamp portions, such as the first clamp portion. When the first and second clamp portions are joined, a surface of the second clamp portion presses against the insert and a desired angle between the first and second tile is formed. The insert can have any angle so that any desired angle can be formed between the first and second tiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Barco, Inc.
    Inventors: Marcus Robert Patterson, Grant Arthur John Elliott
  • Publication number: 20140157636
    Abstract: An LCD destination sign is provided that provides a high resolution image and operates in at least two modes. One mode is a destination message mode that is used when a destination message (i.e., a route number and/or destination name in substantially static alphanumeric or symbols) is to be displayed on the destination sign. The second mode is a non-destination mode wherein graphic images are displayed on the destination sign, wherein such graphic images do not provide a destination message and may include video feeds, weather forecasts or newsreels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2014
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: LUMINATOR HOLDING L.P.
    Inventor: RAMIN SAFAVI
  • Patent number: 8686832
    Abstract: A computer-based system manages and communicates the identity, attributes, and current state of a geographic point of interest. The system includes a beacon device and a distributed data network. The beacon device includes a housing supporting control electronics, a display, and communication electronics. The beacon is placed at a visible location at the geographic point of interest and receives information concerning the geographical point of interest. The display visibly communicates the information while the communication electronics communicates the same information to the distributed data network. A user can query a location-based service and receive the same information from the distributed data network that is being communicated by the display, assuring communication of accurate and consistent information concerning the geographic point of interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Ronin Licensing, LLC
    Inventor: Alexandre H. Oliveira
  • Patent number: 8677662
    Abstract: An LCD destination sign is provided that provides a high resolution image and operates in at least two modes. One mode is a destination message mode that is used when a destination message (i.e., a route number and/or destination name in substantially static alphanumeric or symbols) is to be displayed on the destination sign. The second mode is a non-destination mode wherein graphic images are displayed on the destination sign, wherein such graphic images do not provide a destination message and may include video feeds, weather forecasts or newsreels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Luminator Holding L.P.
    Inventor: Ramin Safavi
  • Patent number: 8652592
    Abstract: A discrimination medium on which printing can be freely performed, which cannot be easily falsified, in which the authenticity can be easily discriminated by unique appearance, and which can be produced at low cost, is provided. A cholesteric liquid crystal layer 10, and a breakable print recording layer are laminated in the discrimination medium. The cholesteric liquid crystal layer 10 has plural light transparent films, which are laminated and are different from each other in refraction index. Therefore, the discrimination medium has unique optical characteristics such that a character, a symbol, a pattern, a figure formed by printing by a thermal printer or the like changes in color depending on the viewing angle. A discrimination method using the above optical characteristics of the discrimination medium is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: NHK Spring Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidekazu Hoshino, Itsuo Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 8388165
    Abstract: The device comprises a visual effecter and a display, wherein the visual effecter comprises at least one encapsulated electronic-optical element; the display can be a 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional display or any combination thereof; the display locates outside the visual effecter; and the display is subject to the visual effect of the visual effecter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: Yudong Zhang
  • Publication number: 20120159817
    Abstract: The display apparatus has a display portion, an inlet, an outlet, a fan portion which generates the air flow from the inlet to the outlet along the display portion, a exhaust duct having an opening in the bottom side and leading the air emitted from the outlet to the opening, and a inhale duct having an opening in the bottom side and leading the air entered from the opening to the inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masaya NAKAMICHI
  • Patent number: 8136277
    Abstract: A light-emitting display system has an alignment mechanism to align or angle light-emitting tiles of the display. A first tile connects to a second tile by joining a first clamp portion on the first tile with a second clamp portion on the second tile. In an implementation, the alignment mechanism includes a replaceable angle adjustment insert that is inserted into at least one of the clamp portions, such as the first clamp portion. When the first and second clamp portions are joined, a surface of the second clamp portion presses against the insert and a desired angle between the first and second tile is formed. The insert can have any angle so that any desired angle can be formed between the first and second tiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Barco, Inc.
    Inventors: Marcus Robert Patterson, Grant Arthur John Elliott
  • Publication number: 20110225859
    Abstract: An LCD destination sign is provided that provides a high resolution image and operates in at least two modes. One mode is a destination message mode that is used when a destination message (i.e., a route number and/or destination name in substantially static alphanumeric or symbols) is to be displayed on the destination sign. The second mode is a non-destination mode wherein graphic images are displayed on the destination sign, wherein such graphic images do not provide a destination message and may include video feeds, weather forecasts or newsreels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: LUMINATOR HOLDING L.P.
    Inventor: RAMIN SAFAVI
  • Patent number: 7823308
    Abstract: An electronic sign having a formed metal cabinet where precise and close tolerance formed planar panels and formed channels are fastened together only by rivets, nut inserts, adhesive coated tapes, or the combination thereof for rapid assembly thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Lane A. Munson, Cassandra L. Fuls
  • Patent number: 7694444
    Abstract: An electronic sign having a formed metal cabinet where precise and close tolerance formed planar panels and formed channels are fastened together only by rivets, nut inserts or the combination thereof for rapid assembly thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent S. Miller, Todd M. Letcher, Nathan L. Nearman, Lane A. Munson, Cassandra L. Fuls
  • Patent number: 7665874
    Abstract: An information display device illuminates a light pipe, and includes a controller to regulate the power levels delivered to a light source, thereby regulating the amount of light delivered to the light pipe. Alternatively, the information display device delivers visual data, including alpha-numeric characters, predetermined images, or a controlled phasing. The information display device may be utilized to illuminate information associated with the structure. The illumination system provides the ability to phase between different colors, as well as blended colors. Accordingly, an information display device phases between varying colors, and may blend colors to create color schemes. The illumination system includes a control module disposed within the structure to control device parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas J. Chadwell, Michael T. Romanyszyn, John Vira
  • Patent number: 7561216
    Abstract: In an operating device for a cooktop with a liquid crystal display with two LCD plates, on the top of the lower of the two LCD plates is directly applied a microcontroller in the form of semiconductor chip, for example using COG technology. The semiconductor chip not only controls the LCD, but there are also provided capacitive sensor elements located on said LCD that are evaluated by the semiconductor chip, so that an independent module is formed. The module can be connected by suitable electrical connections to the cooktop and can at least partly or completely control the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: E.G.O. Elektro-Geraetebau GmbH
    Inventor: Martin Baier
  • Patent number: 7551088
    Abstract: The present invention consists of an electronic vehicle tag (EVT), which is preferably 12×6 inches. It consists of an encasement mountable by 4 screws to a motor vehicle. The front face is comprised of an electronic paper display technology, which requires no power consumption to maintain its image. The electronic paper display will hold a high resolution full color graphic design relating to the vehicle tag selected and tag information depending on the state of issuances requirements. The display is reflective and can be easily read in sunlight or dimly lit environments and at virtually any angle. The plate has an electronic paper technology for display, wireless communication transmitter/receiver, logic board for electronic paper manipulation, high impact encasement, and a battery pack. The battery pack is used to change the display when required. The electronic vehicle tag is independent of the vehicle in which it is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventors: W. David Findlay, Brian Bannister
  • Patent number: 7174664
    Abstract: A battery powered, hand-held signaling device having an illuminated display capable of selectively displaying illuminated indicia including the words “STOP”, “SLOW” and “GO” is privided. The illuminated indicia are preferably color-coded, whereby the word “STOP” is displayed in illuminated red letters, the word “GO” is displayed in illuminated green letters, and the word “SLOW” is illuminated in yellow letters thereby maximizing recognition by an observer, such as the driver of an approaching vehicle. Selection of a particular message to be displayed is accomplished by user actuation of suitable electrical switching circuitry. In alternate embodiments, the device may be adapted for displaying a host of other illuminated messages, such as “TURN RIGHT,” “TURN LEFT, ” “PARK,” etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventor: Eric Spencer
  • Patent number: 7167167
    Abstract: Apparatus for changing the display state of a bistable liquid crystal display on a display tag having a plurality of electrical contact pads connected to a corresponding plurality of electrodes in the liquid crystal display includes a body defining a slot for receiving and locating the display tag with respect to the body; a plurality of contact pins located in the body and being mounted for movement into the slot to contact the electrical contact pads of a display tag located in the slot; drive electronics electrically connected to the contact pins for receiving display command signals from an external source and for applying electrical drive signals to the electrodes of the display when the contact pins are in contact with the electrical contact pads; and operator control means for moving the contact pins into electrical contact with the electrical contact pads and causing the drive electronics to apply the electrical drive signals to the contact pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Robert G. Capurso, David M. Johnson, Domenic Maiola, James M. Papa
  • Patent number: 6997592
    Abstract: Provided is an advertisement apparatus using a light switching device which transmits or shields light according as a power source or heat is supplied or not. The advertisement apparatus includes a light switching device transmitting light when a power source or heat is supplied thereto and shielding light of less than predetermined brightness when a power source or heat is not supplied thereto, or operating in a reverse manner, and an illuminator for illuminating an image onto the light switching device with light whose brightness is greater than the predetermined brightness. The light switching device can be used as the window of a building, and can present images of an advertisement using the illuminator for irradiating light from a projector, for example, to the light switching device. Therefore, the advertisement apparatus using a light switching device can be used for both indoor and outdoor advertising displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Si Han Kim
    Inventor: Young Jae Jeon
  • Patent number: 6950088
    Abstract: The electrical scan which applies data for one of the red, green and blue colors of a liquid crystal display (LCD) to the pixels of each row of the display and the optical scan of the panel with the color stripe of that color are synchronized to ensure sufficient time for the switching of the pixel from one color value to another. Synchronizing the electrical and optical scans creates a better color rendition of the displayed image without any inter-color mixing artifacts. Arrays or groups of photosensors are positioned laterally adjacent the active portion of the panel and each array is covered by a filter which passes light of only one of the three colors (red, green and blue) used in the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Sandeep M. Dalal
  • Patent number: 6900792
    Abstract: A housing for receiving a flat panel display. The housing for receiving a flat panel display includes a front frame having a central opening, side frames that surround at least part of the edges of the flat panel display, a bottom frame to combine with the front frame, the side frames to form a space to locate said flat panel display, and optionally at least one stopping frame to prevent the flat panel display from being released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: AU Optronics Corp.
    Inventors: Kai-Yu Sun, Han-Chou Liu
  • Patent number: 6813853
    Abstract: Electronic alpha-numeric or symbol sectional display system featuring readily accessible access to internally located modular display and other components for quick changeout of modular and other components. Display panels, which are modular, are readily and quickly secured in stackable enclosure cabinets by the use of ¼ turn or other quick fastening hardware. Other changeout friendly hardware is incorporated within to promote economy of manufacturing and changeout functions. Viewability of alpha-numeric or other symbol information is preserved and enhanced by the use of small panel fine mesh screens which maintain planar attributes and which are located at the front of each modular display panel residing in close proximity to the LED character block displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne R. Tucker
  • Publication number: 20030142057
    Abstract: An information display comprises a planar electrical optical element including a plurality of pixels, each of the pixels having an optical state controlled by an electrical signal; the optical element having at least two optical states of a light scattering state and a light transmissive state, each of the pixels having the optical state reversibly changed between the scattering state and the light transmissive state; information being displayed in a planar fashion by combining the optical states of pixels; and the information being capable to be held with no electrical signal applied, and visible light having a transmittance of 60% or higher when the visible light passes from one of surfaces of the electrical optical element to the other surface through a pixel in the light transmissive state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Applicant: OPTREX Corporation
    Inventors: Satoshi Niiyama, Noriko Suehiro, Shinya Tahara, Hitoshi Tsushima
  • Publication number: 20030133098
    Abstract: In an identification medium for identifying an authenticity of an object either visually or optically by using an identification device, high polymer cholesteric liquid crystal is applied onto the object, onto a sticker adapted to affixed to the object or onto a base for hot stamping onto the object, and the high polymer cholesteric liquid crystal is patterned, and/or a graphic representation layer such as a figure and letter is formed under or over the high polymer cholesteric liquid crystal to enhance the aesthetic quality of the identification medium or the object, and improve the capability to identify and prevent forgery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Applicant: NHK Spring Co., Ltd., a corporation of Japan
    Inventors: Hidekazu Hoshino, Itsuo Takeuchi, Seiya Shibuya
  • Patent number: 6588132
    Abstract: A light emitting portion is formed in such a manner that LED chips 2 are provided on the one ends of the leads 1 for the respective segments of a numeral which is a part of a display image. A reflecting case in which light conducting portions are provided so as to correspond to the parts of the display image is formed so that the LED chips are encircled by the respective light conducting portions. Light permeable resin 4 is filled in the reflecting case so that the interior of the reflecting case 3 and the one ends of the plurality of leads are fixed. An uneven portion is formed at least a portion of an outer peripheral side wall of the reflecting case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Rohm Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazuyoshi Tsuji
  • Patent number: 6558225
    Abstract: An electronic figurine has at least one appendage, a means for displaying electronic images in relation to a virtual character, and a circuit board. The circuit board is programmed to generate images of the virtual character including facial expressions, symbols, virtual activates, games and animated sequences. The electronic figurine further includes means for activating pre-programmed responses when a user interacts with the appendages or orientation of the figurine. Moreover, the electronic figurine may also include various audible sounds and responses that may also be activated and interacted with by a user interacting with the physical figurine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Rehco, LLC
    Inventors: Steven Rehkemper, Richard X. Zawitz, Daniel Bryce, Dennis J. O'Patka
  • Publication number: 20020184802
    Abstract: An assembly and method for providing audio/visual advertising to supplement standard print advertising is disclosed and described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventors: Todd James Gravitt, Kelly Jean Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20020026734
    Abstract: An LCD-pixel-matrix element is disclosed, along with a display screen capable of graphics having a plurality of such LCD-pixel-matrix elements, and a procedure for brightness control of such an LCD-pixel matrix element for such a display screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Publication date: March 7, 2002
    Applicant: AEG Gesellschaft fur moderne Informationssysteme mbH
    Inventors: Reiner Bayrle, Thomas Bitter, Otto Bader
  • Patent number: 6314669
    Abstract: Electronic alpha-numeric or symbol sectional display system featuring readily accessible access to internally located modular display and other components for quick changeout of modular and other components. Display panels, which are modular, having side-by-side display module/nested frame assemblies which include outer and inner nested frameworks, fine mesh screen, display circuit boards with LED character block displays, and driver circuit boards, are readily and quickly secured in stackable enclosure cabinets by the use of ¼ turn or other quick fastening hardware. Other changeout friendly hardware is incorporated within to promote economy of manufacturing and changeout functions. Viewability of alpha-numeric or other symbol information is preserved and enhanced by the use of small panel fine mesh screens which maintain planar attributes and which are located at the front of each modular display panel residing in close proximity to the LED character block displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne R. Tucker
  • Patent number: 6311419
    Abstract: A viewing apparatus for transparencies or the like masks any faceplate areas not covered by images by generating masks, and adapts the luminance level of the image under study and of other faceplate areas to the optimal viewing conditions required by the observer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Smartlight Ltd.
    Inventor: Dan Inbar
  • Patent number: 6279253
    Abstract: A viewing apparatus (11) for transparencies or the like masks any display areas (20) not covered by transparencies (505-508) by generating masks without moving parts, and adapts the luminance level of the image under study and of other display areas to the optimal viewing conditions required by the observer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Smartlight Ltd.
    Inventors: Dan Inbar, Giora Teltsch
  • Patent number: 6163993
    Abstract: A simulated rock numerical display device includes a unitary solid body having an outer surface resembling a natural rock. The body further includes a base which forms a recess for holding a digital numeric display. The numeric display can be selectively set to a desired price and revealed during a sales transaction by a seller directing the base toward a buyer. Upstanding front, back, and side walls extend from the base and substantially converge at a top surface. The top surface includes an irregular contour indicative of a rock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: Philp A. Boehmke
  • Patent number: 6119380
    Abstract: A transparency viewing device comprising:at least one interior reflective surface;a light transmitting viewing surface adapted to accommodate a transparency to be viewed;a light source which provides backlight illumination to the viewing surface, thereby creating a viewing field having a transparency-bearing region;at least one masking element mounted and configured for movement with respect to the viewing surface, which masks an adjustable area of the viewing field leaving a field of view including at least part of the transparency bearing region unmasked; andat least one reflective element, additional to the interior reflective surface, attached to the masking element such that when the masking element moves the reflective element moves together with the masking element and which reflective element directs at least part of the light from the masked area to the field of view in an amount and in a direction such that the backlighting of the unmasked region is substantially changed as a function of the movemen
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: SmartLight Ltd.
    Inventor: Dan Inbar
  • Patent number: 6121988
    Abstract: A cutout portion 12 is formed by partially cutting out a board along a predetermined fold and a first portion 14 and a second portion 15 partitioned along the fold are folded and attached together into a unitary body by a bonding agent or thermal fusing. Formed on a surface of the printed wiring board 11 is a conductor pattern 17 that continuously runs across the fold at the cutout portion between the first portion and the second portion, and thus the conductor pattern assuring continuity between both sides of a printed wiring board 20 results without the need for providing through-holes. By employing such a printed wiring board, a compact and low-cost feature can be implemented into electronic apparatuses or portable information apparatuses, such as liquid crystal display devices or electronic printers, through a miniature, light-weight and flat design effort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Kenji Uchiyama
  • Patent number: 6101750
    Abstract: A changeable portable, solar powered message sign is disclosed which offers reduced power consumption and enhanced visibility to intended observers especially during the difficult hours about dawn and dusk. The system features character matrices and two independent types of pixel defining systems. The system also includes an automatic solar tracking and control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Power Engineering & Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Blesener, Amir Amighi
  • Patent number: 6101749
    Abstract: Viewing apparatus including a viewing surface having a viewing area, back-lighting apparatus for selectably adjusting the back-illumination of areas of the viewing surface, the areas having a given extent, the back-lighting apparatus including: a liquid crystal array of individually controllable liquid crystal light attenuators located behind the viewing surface, each element of the array being associated with an area of the viewing surface and including active elements having a controllable opacity over an area smaller than the given extent of the area with which it is associated, and inactive areas between the active elements, a light source behind the array of light attenuators and a plurality of light guides, each associated with an element of the array and located between the element and its associated area on the viewing surface for providing controlled illumination of the associated area including at least a portion of the space surrounding the active element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Smartlight Ltd.
    Inventors: Dan Inbar, Giora J. Teltsch
  • Patent number: 5715622
    Abstract: Shelf mounted electronic display modules which preferably include a first outwardly extending portion containing an electronic display and an antenna positioned outwardly from a shelf rail when mounted and a second rearwardly extending portion containing a printed wiring board and a battery power source positioned behind and protected by the shelf rail when mounted. The first outwardly extending portion and the second rearwardly extending portion are preferably connected below the shelf rail by a bight portion which mechanically and electronically connects the first outwardly extending portion and the second rearwardly extending portion together to form a substantially U-shaped configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph J. Giordano, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5664353
    Abstract: A method and an arrangement for optically representing information on a transparent projection surface using several projection modules and using through-light projection. The method and arrangement are both cost effective and ensures that an observer viewing even a large display of information is provided with a bright, contrast, homogeneous image. Each projection module is formed of a light source with a divergent beam radiating through a controllable light valve and a projection surface arranged behind it. The distance between the light valve and the projection surface is chosen in such a way that the image parts projected by adjacent modules border gaplessly to each other on the projection surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Assignee: M A N Systemelektronik GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Brauer, Michael Schluter
  • Patent number: 5589298
    Abstract: Electrochemical devices comprise at least a pair of electrodes and a lithium ion conductive electrolyte provided between the pair of electrodes. At least one of the electrodes comprises a lithium nitride-metal compound having a one-dimensional chain structure. By this, the number of end groups which greatly take part in characteristic degradation of the device can be reduced significantly, ensuring good characteristic properties. The devices include lithium secondary cells, electric double-layer capacitors, and electrochemical display devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazunori Takada, Shigeo Kondo, Osamu Yamamoto, Motoaki Nishijima
  • Patent number: 5357355
    Abstract: A double sided panel display unit produces visual images on both side thereof, and comprises a luminescent panel display with a transparent substrate, a liquid crystal shutter sandwiched between two polarizing plates different in angle of polarization at 90 degrees, and a liquid crystal display supplied with light through the transparent substrate, wherein the liquid crystal shutter and the liquid crystal display are controlled in such a manner that the same visual images are displayed on the polarizing plate as well as on the liquid crystal display, thereby achieving a thin double sided panel display with a small number of components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Ryoichi Arai