Double Reel And Web Patents (Class 40/471)
  • Patent number: 11412846
    Abstract: A home environment regulation system and a control method, comprising pieces of furniture (1) arranged in a home environment. Each piece of furniture (1) comprises a furniture body (11) and a display device. An accommodating cavity (13) is provided within the furniture body (11). A transparent body (12) is provided on the surface of the furniture body (11). The transparent body (12) is provided at an opening of the accommodating cavity (13). The display device is provided within the accommodating cavity (13). The display device comprises a picture display module (14) and a driver module (15). The picture display module (14) is connected to the driver module (15). The picture display module (14) is provided with display pictures of various colors and images. The display pictures on the picture display module (14) face the transparent body (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Inventor: Houhua Han
  • Patent number: 11276335
    Abstract: A scrolling billboard having a frame, a first pair of mandrels mounted within the frame supporting an elongate banner having multiple sign images. One sign image is viewable within the frame opening. A pair of sign drive motors are connected to the first pair of mandrels. A second pair of mandrels move a curtain relative to the frame opening between a blocked position where view of the sign is obstructed and a viewing position in which view of the sign is unobstructed. The mandrels are tubular and internally supported by mandrel supports to prevent sagging. A controller cooperates with the sign and curtain drive motors to change the viewable image by: moving the curtain to the closed position, changing the sign image, and returning the curtain to the viewing position. An add/remove fixture is disclosed to insert or remove signs from the banner. A corresponding method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: INNOVATIVE BILLBOARDS LLC
    Inventors: Paul G. Angott, Randy Gu, Michael A. Latcha, Hugo F. Pimentel
  • Patent number: 10832599
    Abstract: A scrolling billboard having a frame, a first pair of mandrels mounted within the frame supporting an elongate banner having multiple sign images. One sign image is viewable within the frame opening. A pair of sign drive motors are connected to the first pair of mandrels. A second pair of mandrels move a curtain relative to the frame opening between a blocked position where view of the sign is obstructed and a viewing position in which view of the sign is unobstructed. The mandrels are tubular and internally supported by mandrel supports to prevent sagging. A controller cooperates with the sign and curtain drive motors to change the viewable image by: moving the curtain to the closed position, Changing the sign image, and returning the curtain to the viewing position. An add/remove fixture is disclosed to insert or remove signs from the banner. A corresponding method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: INNOVATIVE BILLBOARDS LLC
    Inventors: Paul G. Angott, Randy Gu, Michael A. Latcha, Hugo F. Pimentel
  • Patent number: 9815634
    Abstract: A method for monitoring the condition of a rip detection insert embedded in a conveyor belt, the rip detection insert having a plurality of rip detection wires comprised of a magnetically permeable material; the method including the steps of: inducing a magnetic field within the rip detection wires of the rip detection insert; measuring at least one magnetic characteristic of the rip detection insert; monitoring the at least one magnetic characteristic of the rip detection insert for changes in the magnetic characteristic; determining the rip detection insert has been damaged when a change in at least one magnetic characteristic of the rip detection insert deviates beyond a predetermined threshold for the rip detection insert; and, filtering out a region of the rip detection insert containing the damage to the rip detection insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: ContiTech Transportbandsysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Jack Wallace, Jacques Basson
  • Patent number: 9627231
    Abstract: Methods for bonding substrates, forming assemblies using the same, along with improved methods for refurbishing said assemblies are disclosed that take advantage of at least one channel formed in an adhesive utilized to join two substrates to improve fabrication, performance and refurbishment of the assemblies. In one embodiment an assembly includes a first substrate secured to a second substrate by an adhesive layer. The assembly includes a channel having at least one side bounded by the adhesive layer and having an outlet exposed to an exterior of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Kadthala Ramaya Narendrnath, Gangadhar Sheelavant, Monika Agarwal, Ashish Bhatnagar
  • Patent number: 9245477
    Abstract: A display device which displays an image having a size corresponding to a display area exposed outside a housing is disclosed. In one aspect, the display device includes a flexible display panel having a recognition pattern, a housing, and a light-receiving sensor. The recognition pattern includes a plurality of self-luminous indicators arranged according to a first direction, and having different colors or different light-emitting intensities. The housing is coupled to the flexible display panel for entering/discharging of the flexible display panel according to the first direction such that a display area of the flexible display panel is variously exposed. The light-receiving sensor is positioned corresponding to the recognition pattern in the housing and respectively recognizes a plurality of indicators to sense the exposed display area of the flexible display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Samsung Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jun-Ho Kwack, Joon-Sam Kim, Jong-Hwan Kim
  • Patent number: 9230468
    Abstract: A display device includes: a flexible display panel including a recognition pattern; a housing for holding the flexible display panel, wherein varying amounts of a display area of the flexible display panel are exposable to the outside to display an image; and a sensor in the housing for sensing an amount of the exposed display area corresponding to the recognition pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: Samsung Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jun-Ho Kwack, Hyun-Jae Lee
  • Patent number: 9224319
    Abstract: A method for changing a theme associated with a given space (e.g., restaurant). A wall system includes a wall panel having multiple themes depicted thereon or multiple wall panels each having a theme depicted thereon. Using a series of winches, chain drives, cables and pulleys or the like, the wall panels are moved to change the theme of the space. A ceiling system includes two ceiling panels movable via a series of winches, chain drives, cables and pulleys. Once separated the ceiling panels expose a theme different than that depicted while closed. Audio and/or visual cues may be provided to alert patrons to a theme change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Inventors: Rick Gray, William B. Gorlin, Stephen A. Sywak, Murphy Gigliotti, Frederick L. Smith, Jean Labadie
  • Publication number: 20130118043
    Abstract: An assembly for protecting an item against theft, includes a device (10) for marking the item with a view to identifying same, the device including an area (16) for displaying information, a storage medium (26) in which data to be displayed is stored, elements (22, 24) for selecting data from the storage medium (26) to be displayed in the display area (16), wherein the protection assembly includes a member (14) for attaching the assembly to the item to be protected or to the packaging thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: EXAQTWORLD
    Inventors: Alain Favier, Tamas Lodi
  • Patent number: 8069597
    Abstract: Disclosed is a multipurpose advertisement board having a film between glass plates of a double glazed window, wherein pieces of steel wire are provided to respective ends of the film and the pieces of steel wire can be wound around winding rollers, so that the multipurpose advertisement board can display a variety of patterns printed on the film, and also can act as a normal glass window. The multipurpose advertisement board includes a double glazed window that includes two or more glass plates, a film moving in the space of the double glazed window, an upper winding roller and a lower winding roller installed at the upper and lower portions of the double glazed window for winding the film, pieces of steel wire connected to the left and right ends of the film, and steel wire winding grooves provided to the upper and lower winding rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: Jae-Sik Kim
  • Patent number: 7971377
    Abstract: A lenticular image display is provided for showing two or more changing images and/or three-dimensional (3D) motion effects, including a lenticular panel having an array of linear lenses, at least one image carrier bearing interlaced images disposed behind the lenticular panel in close contact with it, means for angularly aligning the lenses of the lenticular panel and the interlaced images of the image carrier, drive means for producing movement of the image carrier relative to the lenticular panel, a support disposed behind the image carrier, and partially compressed rings or other arcuate elastic elements disposed between the image carrier and the support, urging the image carrier in close contact with the lenticular panel, the arcuate elastic elements also being able to roll against the image carrier so as to facilitate the movement of the image carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Qun Zheng
  • Patent number: 7823306
    Abstract: A room for use in conducting medical procedures includes an image on a screen disposed in the room. The room preferably includes a track for disposing the screen across the room to create a panoramic view of the scene in the screen. Preferably the track, and hence the image on the screen disposed on the track, are arcuate. The screen provides a virtual reality and a calming effect to the patient undergoing the procedure. The screen can be moved mechanically around the room to display different images on the screen. The screen can be changed to provide a different set of images. Ceiling lights, sounds and smells can be added to the room to further accent the theme of the screen's image and enhance the overall calming effect by portraying the medical procedure room as the scene in the screen. Illumination may be provided behind the screen, as well. The medical procedure may be a magnetic resonance imaging procedure, in which case the room comprises a magnetic resonance imaging assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Fonar Corporation
    Inventors: John D. Kersten, Alex Darian, Raymond V. Damadian
  • Publication number: 20090313867
    Abstract: A scrolling display system suitable for large public gatherings. This display comprises at least one display element itself comprising: a frame comprising a display window; two horizontal and parallel end rollers affixed by their extremities to the frame; a rectangular sheet of fabric carrying illustrations and having its ends wound around the end rollers; at least one horizontal guiding roller affixed to the frame and positioned to guide the fabric sheet and fold its path between the two end rollers; at least one horizontal weight roller positioned to maintain tension on the fabric; a programmable electrical motor configured to produce a predetermined amount of angular displacement; driving belts connecting the motor to the end rollers, to transmit the angular displacement to the end rollers. Display of desired illustration is achieved by scrolling the fabric sheet until the illustration faces the display window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventors: Israel Levy, Jay Klein, Robert Kapronczai
  • Publication number: 20090151209
    Abstract: The invention relates to a display device which enables a poster banner to scroll along the length of a support between two motorized winding shafts which are equipped with means for driving same sequentially in both directions and means for fixing the two ends of the poster banner. Accordingly, to the invention, the support is curved on the side comprising the poster banner, over at least part of the surface thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: JCDECAUX SOYER
    Inventors: Roger Blanc, Viviane Blanc, Caroline Blanc Andrei
  • Publication number: 20090071049
    Abstract: The instant invention discloses a projection-type advertisement device. The purpose of the invention is to provide a simple-structure, convenient-used billboard. The technical points of the invention is that the invention comprises a support and an advertisement board fixed on the support, wherein a projector is provided in front of at least one advertisement faceplate of the advertisement board, and the projecting direction of the projector faces to the advertisement faceplate of the advertisement board; a rolling screen is provided ahead of the advertisement faceplate of the advertisement board; and a roller is provided on the two sides of the advertisement board, the roller having a drive device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Jinsong Lan
  • Patent number: 7493715
    Abstract: The invention concerns a scrolling poster display device, comprising two parallel rolls, a poster strip wound on the rolls and a support device for supporting the rear side of the poster strip between the rolls. The support device comprises an air chamber delimited by a peripheral frame and a base offset rearward, and an air blowing device generates an excess pressure of air in the air chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: JCDecaux SA
    Inventors: Marc D'Halluin, Christophe Lemancel
  • Patent number: 7444771
    Abstract: A device for continuously or intermittently displaying graphic material, such as advertisements on the side or rear of a moving vehicle. The vehicle is provided with various sensors which determine the speed of the vehicle as well as whether the vehicle has been parked for a predetermined period of time. Based upon the output of the sensors, the movement of scrolled display containing graphics such as advertisements would be controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Inventor: Enrico Raccah
  • Patent number: 7421810
    Abstract: A picture frame assembly includes a backing plate having a front surface, a rear surface, and a plurality of parallel grooves in one of the surfaces. The material and thickness of the backing plate are chosen so that the backing plate may be plastically deformed about a bending axis parallel to the grooves. At least one frame element, which may be formed integrally with the backing plate, is for provided for retaining a planar picture element against the front surface of the backing plate. A pair of tack elements extending from the rear surface are provided for mounting the assembly to a cylindrical object such as a tree or a candle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Margarete Schymura
  • Patent number: 6817124
    Abstract: An artistic black/white board with decorative function. The artistic black/white board has an artistic frame. Two reels are hidden in two opposite sides of the frame. At least one picture is extensibly wound on one of the reels. In use, the artistic black/white board serves as a normal black/white board for writing and memorizing things. When not used, the picture is pulled out and unwound from the reel to cover the black/white board to serve as a wall painting for achieving a decorative effect and beautifying the appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: Jung-Kuei Ko
  • Publication number: 20040221496
    Abstract: An artistic black/white board with decorative function. The artistic black/white board has an artistic frame. Two reels are hidden in two opposite sides of the frame. At least one picture is extensibly wound on one of the reels. In use, the artistic black/white board serves as a normal black/white board for writing and memorizing things. When not used, the picture is pulled out and unwound from the reel to cover the black/white board to serve as a wall painting for achieving a decorative effect and beautifying the appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventor: Jung-Kuei Ko
  • Publication number: 20040111936
    Abstract: A display apparatus has a roll of film with multiple still images disposed along the roll of film. The roll of film is scrollable by one or more electric motors to display one or more of the still images on the roll of film at a visual display location. The display apparatus includes control equipment which is capable of identifying individual still images on the film separate and apart from that still image's relative location along the length of the film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventor: Douglas Jones
  • Patent number: 6748685
    Abstract: A scroll-type display sign is provided, including a frame, a first fixed shaft connected on the frame, a second fixed shaft connected on the frame parallel spaced from the first shaft, a first scroll roller rotatably mounted on the first shaft, a second scroll roller rotatably mounted on the second shaft, a signage web connected on the first and second scroll rollers, a drive sprocket affixed with the first scroll roller and mounted on the first shaft, a spring sprocket affixed with the second scroll roller and mounted on the second shaft, a constant force spring connected with the spring sprocket to tension the signage web, and a motor torsionally connected with said drive sprocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: United Sign Company
    Inventor: Ronald Brian Peel
  • Publication number: 20040064987
    Abstract: The invention relates to a display medium (1) intended to be installed in a scrollable device, the edges of which can be guided laterally inside said scrollable device. The inventive medium is characterised in that it comprises several adjacent sections (2, 3, 4) which are reversibly interconnected by means of the opposing horizontal edges thereof (10-13) and in that it comprises a lateral rod (7, 17, 27, 8, 18,38) located on each of the lateral edges extending continuously over all of the adjacent sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Eric Bihr
  • Publication number: 20040064988
    Abstract: The invention relates to a poster suspension device comprising a poster sheet. Said poster sheet, while under longitudinal tension, can be displaced in a to and fro manner between rollers, which are arranged one above the other at a distance, and from roller to roller in a direction of transport. The poster sheet is comprised of at least two individual posters. The aim of the invention is to enable individual posters to be separated from the sheet or to be placed in the sheet. To this end, connecting means, which can be removed between the poster surfaces themselves as well as in their edge reinforcements, are provided between at least two individual posters that follow one another in the longitudinal direction of the poster sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Schoning
  • Patent number: 6691441
    Abstract: A device for displaying a set of various flexible posters is described. The device includes a set of receiver drums on which the posters are respectively at least partially wound, a display window and a positioning mechanism for positioning each poster of the set in one of a stowed position in which the poster cannot be seen through the display window and an operative position in which the poster is aligned with the display window. The posters which are in the operative position lie in spaced apart parallel planes. The positioning mechanism comprises a set of motors, each motor of the set being associated with a respective one of the receiver drum, and a programmable control assembly able to send independent control signals to the motors so that any display order is achievable through programming the control assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Mobil'Affiche International
    Inventors: Alain Crivelli, Remy Kerouanton, Yann Kerouanton
  • Patent number: 6668473
    Abstract: A device for suspending posters comprises a poster web that can be driven back and forth between two rolls with longitudinal tensioning in the direction of transport. The rolls are arranged one on top of the other. Each of the lateral longitudinal edges of the web extend in the transport direction. To avoid annoying fluttering of the poster web in wind and weather, a holding device is associated as a lateral guide for the web between the rolls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Distec GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Schoening
  • Patent number: 6655059
    Abstract: A slotted cylinder contains a pair of first and second rollers extending within the cylinder between opposing gears carried by associated sidepieces at the opposing ends of the cylinder. A scroll of reading paper connects between the rollers such that rotating a knob at one-end transfers the reading paper in a first direction between the rollers. Rotating a knob at the opposite end transfers the reading paper in the opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventors: Scott G. Perry, James S. Whittney
  • Patent number: 6564487
    Abstract: Device for posting bills by unwinding a fabric (300) carrying information, in which the fabric (300) is wound and unwound around two motorized and synchronized rollers (100, 200) in such a way that the fabric (300) is kept under tension as it is unwound, characterized in that: the top end (310) of the fabric (300) is mounted removably on a fixing module (110) secured to the upper roller (100); the fixing module (110) is connected to the upper roller (100) by an unwinding mechanism (400) allowing the fixing module (110) to be moved down close to the lower roller for fitting and removing the top end (310) of the fabric (300); it comprises means (500, 501, 340) for keeping the fabric under transverse tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignees: Rigiflex International, Roscal SC
    Inventors: Eric Bihr, Patrick Corbarieu
  • Publication number: 20030089009
    Abstract: A scroll-type display sign is provided, including a frame, a first fixed shaft connected on the frame, a second fixed shaft connected on the frame parallel spaced from the first shaft, a first scroll roller rotatably mounted on the first shaft, a second scroll roller rotatably mounted on the second shaft, a signage web connected on the first and second scroll rollers, a drive sprocket affixed with the first scroll roller and mounted on the first shaft, a spring sprocket affixed with the second scroll roller and mounted on the second shaft, a constant force spring connected with the spring sprocket to tension the signage web, and a motor torsionally connected with said drive sprocket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald Brian Peel
  • Patent number: 6557281
    Abstract: A public display panel includes an external casing which has at least one transparent opening, a support band made of flexible material which carries juxtaposed posters, and a driving mechanism for selectively displaying posters opposite the transparent opening. This display panel further includes an electronic interface adapted to receive data representing new posters to be printed on the support band, an electronic central unit communicating with the interface, and a printer controlled by this central unit for printing new posters on the support board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Inventors: Jacques Lewiner, Eric Carreel
  • Publication number: 20020184804
    Abstract: An outdoor sign system incorporating a scroll module adapted to display a message selected from a plurality of messages on a message web. A roller clutch is provided to permit a take-off side roller to move in one direction and a roller clutch is provided to permit a supply side roller to rotate in an opposite direction, thereby achieving a scroll system that avoids bunching of the scroll web while maintaining tautness of the web. A scroll module of the sign system includes a front face formed of a transparent material. A first roller and a second roller are mounted on opposite sides of the front face. A flexible message web is fed off of one roller and onto a second roller so that the message web displays a desired message through said front face. A motor or, alternatively, a hand crank, is used to impart rotation to one or both of the rollers. A gear mechanism, in association with an in-line roller clutch, acts on a shaft of a roller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Reza Toraby-Payhan
  • Patent number: 6467207
    Abstract: A display apparatus has a roll of film with multiple still images disposed along the roll of film. The roll of film is scrollable by one or more electric motors to display one or more of the still images on the roll of film at a visual display location. The display apparatus is capable of oscillating desired images on display at the visual display location so as to attract the eye of the observer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventors: Douglas Jones, Gregory L. Good
  • Patent number: 6422286
    Abstract: A sign (1) for mounting on an underlayer (P) and for consecutive, repeated presentation of a series of images. The sign (1) comprises at least two elongated display members (4). Each display member (4) has a plurality of sides for displaying images. The sign also comprises a respective drive member (6) for rotating each display member (4) and a frame portion for supporting the display members (4). The frame portion comprises at least one first element (7) for mounting to the underlayer (P) and at least two second elements (8) that are connectable to the first element (7). A display member (4) is rotatably supported on a first side of each second element (8). The drive member (6) for each display member (4) is mounted on a second side of each second element (8). The second side of each second element (8) is opposite the first side of each second element (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Prisma World Sign AB
    Inventor: Jonas Olof Österberg
  • Patent number: 6252575
    Abstract: A method of selectively changing an image on a sign and a sign with selectively changeable image display. A body is provided having a viewing aperture, a printer, and a printed media support for tensioning and advancing printed media produced by the printer across the viewing aperture. The printer is connected to a computer and print files downloaded from the computer to initiate printing by the printer onto printed media and advancing printed media across the viewing aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Inventor: Trevor Jason Kern
  • Patent number: 6247256
    Abstract: A set of simple and economical components is used to transform an existing back lighted sign into a self-propelled scrolling banner display. Only two structural parts are used, and the electro-mechanical components are limited to a step-down transformer, a rectifier circuit, a pair of motors, and a switch and voltage step-down diode assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Inventors: Todd A. Simson, Anton K. Simson
  • Patent number: 6178674
    Abstract: Display panel including several displays each having a surface area of at least 2 m2 and an automatic display changing device adapted to show these displays successively to the public. Each display comprises an optically transparent window (7) which is placed in front of an image display device which displays successive images corresponding to the display shown to the public.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventors: Jean-François Decaux, Jean-Charles Decaux, Jean-S{acute over (e)}bastien Decaux
  • Patent number: 6105290
    Abstract: A display device (30), particularly for use as a menu board in a restaurant or the like. The device (30) has at least two rotatable roller members (31 or 32) located in substantially parallel spaced apart relationship. Carrier means (38) is provided, tightly supported by and rotatable about the rollers (31 and 32) and adapted to receive at least one display means (36) thereon. Each of the carrier means (38) and said display means (36) are constructed at least partially of substantially flexible and translucent material. Illumination means (37) are provided behind at least a portion of said carrier means (38), to illuminate a viewing portion of said carrier means (38) and said display means (36) thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Coates Signco Pty. Limited
    Inventors: Alan Bernard Coates, James Lee Conlon
  • Patent number: 6055753
    Abstract: A media scroll, and an associated method, formed of a plurality of media frames, in which the media scroll is formed of any selected number of media frames. A media display assembly of which the media scroll forms a portions supportively displays a media frame, or a sequence of media frames, at a display position. The media scroll is formed in a manner permitting substitution of media frames and permits addition of additional media frames thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Wybron, Inc.
    Inventor: John Herbert Sondericker, III
  • Patent number: 6029381
    Abstract: A display arrangement presents sequential graphical data that corresponds to predetermined environmental features or points of interest, such as sequential holes of a golfcourse. The display arrangement is installed on the golf cart and the information that is sequentially displayed is correlated to the features of a golf course, such as the various physical characteristics of the respective golf holes. A user will actuate the arrangement by manipulation of an actuator switch, whereupon the graphical data, which is printed on a web, is sequenced to display subsequent information, such as the information that relates to a subsequent golf hole to be played. An automated indexing arrangement controls the displacement of the web on which the graphical data is printed. The web is installed on a web carrier having associated therewith an alignment arrangement that maintains the web element in predeterminable spatial relation with respect to a predetermined web path and the display region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Azurus, Inc.
    Inventors: Dino Diego Aleo, John Benjamin Radford, Dino Luigi Villalta
  • Patent number: 6012242
    Abstract: A publication viewer for viewing sequential pages of a bound publication, printed on pages attached to a flexible strip of material. The pages include printed text pages and groups of animated pages of drawings or photographs. Indexing notches on the pages are either tagged or untagged so that printed text pages can be viewed for an extended period of time, while the groups of animated pages are viewed in quick succession. The viewer itself is a rectangular box including a rectangular opening with an open view portion for sequentially displaying pages of the publication, and a release button for continuing the advancement of the pages. The back of the box has a rectangular opening through which the publication is loaded into the viewer. A drive mechanism in the form of an AC or DC electrical motor, or a spring wound motor, is operatively connected to a first, bottom shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Inventor: George G. Atkeson
  • Patent number: 5979093
    Abstract: A web tension maintaining roll in a scroll sign module is arranged with its axis parallel to a rotatable second roll, both rolls being arranged for rotation between laterally spaced apart side frame members. For each roll, a short shaft projects from opposite side frame members toward each other for the roll to rotate about the common axis of the shafts. A motor driven drive shaft whose axis is transverse to the axes of rotation of the rolls has a worm fastened to the shaft adjacent each of the rolls. The worms are drivingly engaged, respectively, with worm wheels that are supported for rotation about the axis of the short shafts and about the rotational axis of the rolls. The worm wheel for the tension roll is coupled in driving relationship to the tension roll by way of a spiral spring whose inner end is connected to the worm wheel and whose outer end is connected to the tension roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Everbrite, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J Harruff, Philip R Gross
  • Patent number: 5953840
    Abstract: In a banner display device where a plurality of banners are mounted end-to-end upon a carrier web to form a scroll which is wound on a pair of parallel and spaced-apart rollers, means carried on the scroll for stretching or decompressing a medial section of a displayed banner sufficiently to eliminate wrinkles and small distortions. One embodiment uses means for propelling the medial section away from the web comprising resiliently flexible banner end sections or resiliently flexible strips framing the banner which, when partially wound over the rollers, resiliently assume a more planar tangential position in relation to the rollers, thereby allowing the medial section to jut anteriorly away from the carrier.An embodiment further comprises two independent lateral support members capable of being mounted within enclosures having widely different widths. Components such as motors, transmissions, roller mounting spindles, control sensors and circuitry are mounted directly on the support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Inventors: Anton K. Simson, Peter C. Brusso
  • Patent number: 5946836
    Abstract: The display device has a free standing structure or it may be incorporated into a building wall. The display device primarily consists of a banner having a series of panels mounted in a plurality of display areas provided in a movable frame. A selected panel may be moved into position of a display frame. Each panel bears a different display. The display frame consists of a generally rectangular frame having a light projection display screen mounted at its rear side. The panels moved over the display screen. One display area is an empty area and does not contain any panel such that when this empty panel is located at the display frame a light display projected onto the screen with a video or slide projector is visible in the display frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Ahmad Sahebolamri
  • Patent number: 5940999
    Abstract: First and second rolls arranged with their axes parallel to each other and spaced from each other between said side frame members for being driven rotationally to wind an information bearing web on one roll while the web is unwinding from the other roll. The rolls are journaled for rotation at their opposite ends on stub axles that project in cantilever fashion from opposite side members of the frame. Each roll has a gear fastened to a corresponding end coaxially with the roll. A drive shaft extends transversely to the axes of both rolls. A first pinion is positioned on the drive shaft for meshing with the gear on the first roll and is free to turn on the drive shaft. A second pinion is fastened to the drive shaft and meshes with the gear on the second roll. A spur gear is fastened to the drive shaft between the pinions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Everbrite, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J Harruff, Philip P Gross
  • Patent number: 5924646
    Abstract: A display apparatus employing a scrolling principle having two rollers that are activated and supported by independently controllable conveyors. The rollers, which can serve either as a supply roller or as a take-up roller, are attached to opposite sides of a conveyor display platform. The rollers are connected to each other by a traveling full width belt which winds off one roller, is transported via the conveyor display platform, and winds up on the other roller in a scrolling fashion, with carpets of display attached to the belt by a releasable device so as to allow for convenient viewing, examining, storage, and retrieval of the carpets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Inventor: Amir S. Pouya
  • Patent number: 5809677
    Abstract: A sign wherein individual film panels bearing graphical information are interconnected as an uninterrupted web by way of interconnecting plastic zippers. The web, which is composed of a series of film panel transparencies, is wound and unwound from spaced apart rollers for presenting the individual panels for viewing through a window in a housing. The concept of releasably interconnecting film panels is also used in stationary signs such as menu boards in fast food restaurants to provide for easy interchange of the panels when it is desired to present different menu items and prices, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Everbrite, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl H. Wamser, Robert A. Karsten
  • Patent number: 5794881
    Abstract: A gel tensioning device maintains tension on a gel. The gel is wound between two rollers as the diameters of the rollers change by rolling and unrolling the gel, the amount of movement between the two rollers also changes. This difference in movement is absorbed by a spring that biases the rollers relative to one another. The present invention preferably applies force to one of the rollers, that one roller connects to a special spring assembly and through that special spring assembly to the other roller. The special spring assembly includes a special kind of spring, which has desirable characteristics but is susceptible to reverse winding. A roller clutch allows force to be applied to the spring in the winding direction only and not in the non-winding direction. This prevents damage to the spring from any reverse winding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Light & Sound Design, Ltd.
    Inventor: Nigel Evans
  • Patent number: 5755050
    Abstract: A sign for selectively displaying a variety of information in a viewing window includes a web extending between a pair of spaced rollers and moveable by rolling and unrolling on the rollers. A base panel is releasably secured to a surface of the web. The base panel has an outer surface and an inner surface facing the web. Pockets are provided on the inner surface of the base panel for receiving the ends of display panels containing the information to be displayed in a viewing area of the sign. The pockets retain the display panels on the base panel while permitting relative movement therebetween as the web is rolled up and unrolled. The attachment of the base panels to the web also permits such relative movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventor: Robert B. Aiken
  • Patent number: 5687498
    Abstract: A display apparatus for presenting changeable signage appropriate for use with backlit sign frames. Information-bearing inserts are supported in pockets on a display film which has a plurality of transparent panes through which the inserts may be displayed. Each end of the display film is loosely wound around a roller, and the remainder of the display film can be viewed through a translucent front display window. The rollers are coupled with multilink endless chain and are mounted on brackets which also support the display windows. The front window is hinged to allow it to be swung open for access to the display film for changing the inserts and for scrolling the display film so that a different set of inserts is visible through the display window. The display apparatus is supported by an existing sign frame through the use of fasteners spaced along the brackets and along the perimeter of the existing sign frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Florida Plastics International, Inc.
    Inventors: William W. Keyser, David B. Keyser
  • Patent number: 5678333
    Abstract: A changeable scrolling web sign for selectively displaying a variety of menu items and pricing information in a viewing window includes a scrolling web adapted to receive interchangeable information panels. The mounts for mounting the information panels on the web permits the information panels to move relative to the web in a direction substantially parallel to the scrolling direction of the web for permitting the web and panels to be wound on and paid out from cylindrical take-up rolls. A cover is placed over the information panel when positioned in the viewing window of the menu board for maintaining the information panel in a flat, planar viewing position. The sliding movement permitted between the information panel and the web accommodates the varying radii created as the web and information panel are wound on and unwound from the web take-up rolls. The scrolling web sign is adapted to be backlighted to enhance the aesthetics of the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: Milwaukee Sign Co.
    Inventor: Robert B. Aiken, Sr.