Abstract: An illuminated sign (2) comprises a sign panel (5) and at least two elements of electroluminescent material (14, 15) each element being individually selectively actuable and arranged to emit light so as to illuminate the sign panel. Each element may be used as a photodetector or a photo-emitter. A retro-reflective strip (10) may provide additional visibility.

Abstract: Method and apparatus provide for attaching a planar electroluminescent lamp unit to the side of a billboard, and providing a media adhered to the surface of the lamp unit and to the side of the billboard adjacent the lamp unit, wherein the media has advertising indicia printed thereon. The lamp unit is connected to a source of power on the billboard.

Abstract: The present invention is a structure having a new and improved wrap for structures formed from a flexible film that increases the awareness and impact of the wrap. The wrap comprises a background and one or more design elements. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the design element is a three-dimensional design element that extends in a direction outwardly away from the surface of the structure.

Abstract: A vehicle backlit panel includes a base substrate, an electroluminescent element and an outer substrate. The electroluminescent element is disposed on one side of the base substrate. The outer substrate overlies the electroluminescent element. The outer substrate includes a translucent substrate portion having areas of different thicknesses as measured in a direction of illumination through the outer substrate to form a three-dimensional graphic image with a three-dimensional appearance resulting from different translucency levels of the areas of different thicknesses.

Abstract: A double-sided display is provided. The double-sided display includes two display panels comprising electroluminescene panels, organic light emitting panels, and polymer light emitting panels. The two display panels are stacked partially overlapped. A flexible printed circuit board having a bending portion adapted for electrically connecting with the two display panels.

Abstract: A safety sign and methods are shown with advantages such as being more visible in poor conditions such as snow, dust, fog, low light, etc. Safety signs as shown can be seen from farther away than conventional signs. Safety signs as shown eliminate problems associated with point source lighting.

Abstract: In some embodiments of the present invention, a vending machine display apparatus and method includes a controller, a display electrically coupled to the controller and adapted to be coupled to the vending machine in a location externally visible on the vending machine, and a power line coupled to the display and adapted to supply power to the display. The display can be associated with the user-manipulatable control and/or with a product in the vending machine dispensed by operation of the user-manipulatable control. In some embodiments, the display is responsive to the controller by changing graphics and/or text displayed by the display.

Abstract: A long-range house number identification panel has its number indicia mounted on an illuminated viewing screen, being individually readable with the naked eye from up to 200 feet distance. An electrically energizable phosphorescent screen behind the indicia serves to illuminate the numbers at night. The identifying indicia may consist of transparencies through the surface of a blanking screen. A photocell switches off the screen in daylight; and the level of screen illumination may be limited below the optimum, by operating at a reduced voltage so as to extend the service life of the screen. A u/v barrier coat may be used to protect the phosphor of the screen against solar degradation.

Abstract: The present invention provides an article of clothing with a backlit display that emits light through a mask that allows signage to be placed on the garment. The garment has attached to its surface by clips or snaps a display module having a substantially flat envelope enclosing an electro-luminescent lamp and a mask. The electro-luminescent lamp layer is energized by an electrical signal from an control electronic circuit that passes its signal through the clips or snaps. The electro-luminescent layer may be divided into segments where each segment functions as an independent electro-luminescent layer receiving a potential having a pattern of illumination that is determined by the control electronic circuit. The invention can be used in safety apparel where the resulting pattern is a bright surface having the shape of a caution warning.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a high-efficiency circuit-equipped light emitting board, which is made so as to be usable as advertisement boards and signs, and can be used either indoor ones or outdoor ones. The light emitting board includes inner and outer frames, a display board, light emitting diodes, and a driving circuit for making the light emitting diodes to produce light. The display board allows light to travel through it, and has words, patterns, characters, drawings or signs adhered thereto. The display board is disposed between the frames in such a way that users can easily substitute it with a different one. And, the present board is watertight.

Abstract: In a process for the production of a plate, in particular a motor vehicle licence plate, in which at least a layer sequence forming an electroluminescence flat capacitor (4, 5, 6, 7) and a reflection film (10; 10?) are applied to a carrier (1), a reflection film (10; 10?) is selected whose reflection value is higher than the maximum value permitted by statute, and said reflection value is reduced by further production steps to such an extent that it is below the maximum value permitted by statute.

Abstract: An exit device includes an electroluminescent exit sign assembly, preferably mounted on a push rail actuator of the exit device. An electroluminescent illuminator, an opaque material and a transparent protective cover form the electroluminescent sign assembly. The push rail actuator operates a latch mechanism and opens an associated exit door when pressure is applied. An inverter may be located within the exit device to power the electroluminescent illuminator with an AC or voltage. The electroluminescent sign assembly is preferably removable for repair or replacement without removing the exit device from the exit door and is located within a surface cavity in an electrically insulating touchpad on the exit device actuator. Additional transparent nonconductive material surrounds the electroluminescent material to provide further electrical insulation.

Abstract: A luggage identifier, which is disposed on a luggage case or a luggage bag, includes a chassis and an identifying device, wherein the chassis includes a retaining space. The identifying device is disposed in the retaining space. The identifying device includes an identifying unit and a circuit board. The identifying unit is connected to the circuit board with a power switch connected therebetween. Accordingly, the user can easily and quickly identify his/her luggage case by recognizing the identifying device, thereby saving time on looking for the luggage case, and preventing himself/herself from claiming a luggage of other people.

Abstract: A portable illuminated display device arranged to be mounted on various items, such as windows of vehicles or businesses or on garments. The device includes an illuminatable display panel, e.g., an electroluminescent, OLED, LCD or LED panel, and an associated driver/control unit. The display panel is made up of various illuminatable areas or segments arranged to be illuminated in a predetermined pattern and sequence by the driver/control unit to produce an animated display of graphic and/or text.

Abstract: A display device that can be mounted to a surface, such as a window, using static attraction. The display device has an illumination assembly circuit including a light source (such as an LED), a power supply (such as a battery) and a switch interposed therebetween. The illumination assembly is either attached to or enclosed within a mounting film, such as a flexible polymer that is electrostatically attracted to a surface. A preferred device has indicia printed on it to display, and with which the LEDs cooperate.

Abstract: Integrated illumination systems employing illumination devices formed onto substrates are described. According to one embodiment, the display system combines an electroluminescent lamp, a photocell, a power supply receiving energy from the photocell and discharging electrical energy to the EL lamp, and, optionally, a control switch to manage the intervals of electrical energy discharge to the EL lamp for illumination; the components of the d lay system combining to provide illumination for an object, such as a sign. According to another embodiment, a photocell, power supply and light emitting device are each formed onto a single substrate to form a totally self-contained, self-powered illuminating device. According to another embodiment, an electroluminescent lamp is provided to form an illuminated decal. The EL lamp may be configured to have a front illumination surface and a back mounting surface, with a decal backing attached to the back mounting surface.

Abstract: Signs including electroluminescent lamps are described. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention a sign includes an electroluminescent lamp integrally formed therewith.

Abstract: A keypad backlighting apparatus includes an electroluminescence layer for lighting an input device of an electronic apparatus. The input device may be a keypad and the electronic apparatus may be a mobile communications terminal. The terminal includes an upper case having a plurality of button holes formed in a predetermined pattern, electroluminescence (EL) keypad on a lower surface of the upper case and having buttons exposed through the button holes. A printed circuit board (PCB) installed adjacent the EL keypad includes a backlight driving circuit for supplying power to the EL keypad. A lower case of the terminal is coupled to the upper case and supports the EL keypad and the PCB.

Abstract: A channel letter lighting unit according to the present invention comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) having a plurality of linearly mounted light emitting elements. Input wires transmit a power signal to the PCB to illuminate the plurality of light emitting elements, and output wires transmit the power signal from the PCB. The PCB is mounted in the extrusion and the light emitting elements transmit light away from the extrusion. The extrusion promotes the dissipation of heat from the light emitting elements. A mounting mechanism is included for mounting the extrusion within a housing. A further embodiment according to the invention comprises a plurality of channel lighting units electrically connected to one another so that a power signal applied to the lighting system is transmitted to each of the plurality of lighting units. A still further embodiment according to the invention comprises an illuminated channel letter system having a housing in the shape of a letter.

Abstract: An LED light source is received in a groove portion provided in a light guide plate. The groove portion is covered with a base member, and the circumferential edge of the base member is bonded to the light guide plate. Concave portions or convex portions having desired shapes are provided in a surface opposite to a light emission observable surface of the light guide plate so as to form character portions.

Abstract: In some embodiments of the present invention, a vending machine display apparatus and method includes a controller, an electroluminescent display electrically coupled to the controller and adapted to be coupled to the vending machine in a location externally visible on the vending machine, and a power line coupled to the electroluminescent display and adapted to supply power to the electroluminescent display. The electroluminescent display can be associated with the user-manipulatable control and/or with a product in the vending machine dispensed by operation of the user-manipulatable control. In some embodiments, the electroluminescent display is responsive to the controller by changing graphics and/or text displayed by the display.

Abstract: An advertising board capable of displaying advertising during both day and night hours. The board has an blocking panel having printed advertising material on one face layered on the front of PCB base plates installed with combination of LED devices. During night time hours the advertising board displays various moving advertising pictures through the several LED devices which are aligned with holes in the blocking panel.

Abstract: An illuminated sign (2) comprises a sign panel (5) and at least two elements of electroluminescent material (14, 15) each element being individually selectively actuable and arranged to emit light so as to illuminate the sign panel. Each element may be used as a photodetector or a photo-emitter. A retro-reflective strip (10) may provide additional visibility.

Abstract: Lures and decoys for hunting and fishing have proven to be more effective when they are in motion, so as to appear more life-like to the prey. Historically, this motion has been provided by means of mechanical agitation of various sorts, which can be cumbersome and expensive to implement.

Abstract: An integrated advertisement board includes a frame, several light emitting elements arranged on the frame in a form of a matrix, and a controlling circuit electrically connected to the light emitting element; the controlling circuit is used for making each light emitting element emit light and stop emitting light in an alternate way for the light emitting element to present patterns as well as for the patterns to have constantly changing appearance.

Abstract: A page for a memory album or a scrapbook has an illumination assembly secured between adjacent sheets of the page. The illumination assembly has a power source and one or more light emitting members powered by the power source. The light emitting member(s) are mounted opposite one or more openings formed in the page to allow light emitted by the light emitting member to be visible on the front surface of the page. An on/off switch is mounted on the carrier, which is secured to the back of the page to allow a user to selectively activate the light-emitting member by depressing the location on the page which overlays the switch. A rigid eyelet may be mounted in a surrounding relationship over each opening to protect the sheets of the album. A resistance member is incorporated into a programmable electronic circuit to regulate the supply of power to the light emitting members and extend the life of the power source. The illumination assembly allows personalization of the design on the page of the scrapbook.

Abstract: A light-conductive and transparent front panel 12 is mounted in a frame 11. One or more etched characters 22 are formed on a rear surface 17 of the front panel 12, and one or more photo-luminescent characters 16 is/are disposed in overlying relation to the etched character(s) 22. A strip of light emitting diodes (LED's) 14 are mounted in the frame 11 adjacent to a side wall 13 of the front panel 12. Mounting members 19, 20 are formed on the frame to position and hold the front panel in place.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for retrofitting a backlit sign with an LED module. The housing includes sidewalls with translucent portions. The LED module includes linear arrays of LEDs supported by support arms having mounting mechanisms for engaging with the housing sidewalls. The mounting mechanisms include scissor arms rotatably attached together about mid-portions thereof, and a tightening screw that adjusts the distance between the scissor arm ends to press engagement surfaces of the scissor arms against the housing sidewalls. Adjustment screws at the lower ends of the support arm can be adjusted to further extend the engagement surfaces, so that a single LED module can be installed inside a wide range of backlit sign sizes. The retrofit method includes removing the conventional fluorescent lamp from the backlit sign, and installing the LED module using the scissor arm mounting mechanisms.

Abstract: The invention relates to an indication sign consisting of an at least partially flat support element (10) provided with at least one opening (12) for producing a printed image, a graphic representation and/or a line of characters, whereby said at least partially flat support element (10) is connected on one flat side thereof to a flat electro-luminesence based or luminescent polymer (14), or by means of an illuminated acrylic glass, in order to form backlighting. The opening (12) is filled with at least one partially translucent filling material, particularly a casting resin.

Abstract: An integrated electroluminescent display device includes: at least one illumination assembly formed by a first set of layers, the illumination assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode, a layer of electroluminescent material disposed between the first and second electrodes, and a plurality of conductive leads connected to corresponding ones of the first and second electrodes, the first electrode being translucent; a printed circuit layer having a plurality of conductive segments connected to corresponding ones of the first and second electrodes via the conductive leads; and an electronic component layer including electronic components having electrical contacts connected to corresponding ones of the segments of the printed circuit layer, the electronic components providing for selective illumination of the illumination assembly, the printed circuit layer is disposed in a substantially parallel and contiguous relationship with the first set of layers.

Abstract: An illuminated street sign illuminated by LEDs. A light engine comprising a light engine carrier, at least one LED, a heat sink and optionally a reflector and/or lens system is used to illuminate a street sign. The light engine can be retrofit into existing illuminated street signs after removal of the fluorescent tube, attached to the interior of conventional housings or be integrally formed with the housing of an illuminated sign.

Abstract: Disclosed is a robust, flexible and versatile electroluminescent sign that is readily mobile.

Abstract: Safety vests, highway traffic signs and other articles having reflective or fluorescent surfaces for the purpose of enhanced visibility at night when oncoming vehicle are given a substantially higher level of night visibility by the incorporation of candescent light-emitting diodes integrally into the reflective surfaces.

Abstract: A plate such as a motor vehicle licence plate comprises a casing which includes a flat rear wall surrounded by a forwardly projecting edge defining a light transmission opening, through which a flat symbol carrier extending parallel to the rear wall of the casing is visible. The symbol carrier has regions of differing transparency to represent symbols thereon. An electrically activatable light film between the rear wall and the symbol carrier shines light through the symbol carrier from the rear. To provide retroreflective properties, arranged in front of the light film and parallel thereto is a film which extends at least over considerable parts of the area of the light transmission opening and which is at least partially transparent for the light from the rear and which is retroreflective for light impinging thereon from the exterior. A light cover which is transparent at least in region-wise manner closes the light transmission opening.

Abstract: A light apparatus includes a plurality of light emitting diodes and a lenticular lens having a plurality of spaced apart ridges for stretching light emitted by the plurality of light emitting diodes. The light apparatus may include a controller for activating and deactivating the light emitting diodes in a sequence and the controller may include a user interface for programming the sequence.

Abstract: A sandwich structure (5) is formed by a base layer (2) and a protective layer (4) that are assembled together through the interposition of a spacer layer (3) therebetween, in such a manner as to form a tightly sealed, insulated hollow space (13), in which high-luminosity LEDs are arranged to illuminate the number plate through transparent portions (14) of the protective layer (4). The LEDs are adapted to be connected to a power supply through conductive paths (20, 21) provided on the inner surface of the base layer (2).

Abstract: A normal four sided drop box 10 is provided with with new panels 12 which are made from translucent material replacing the standard solid metal or aluminum side, front and rear panels currently employed. The panels are placed on the sides, rear and front of the drop box or receptacle. At least one internal light source 20 (LED, Incandescent, etc.) is placed inside the box to be visible through the translucent material applied in place of the solid metal covering. A consumer thus sees the illuminated panels from the outside of the drop box or receptacle. But the internal components 30 are unseen and hidden from view. In one embodiment the companies or individuals message, logo, script, 22 is backlit by the internal light source 20 makes the message visible at night. A power source battery 50 is preferably powered by solar panel 40.

Abstract: An outer housing of a household appliance, preferably, in cupboard form, includes an inscription concerning the origin of the appliance on the front side of the housing in the form of a trademark formed from a glass body. To increase the conspicuousness of the mark, the trademark is presented from a structural element or assembly of transparent or translucent material and is connected to at least one light source provided on an inner side of the housing such that an outer surface of the trademark radiates light in a forward direction when the light source is switched on.

Abstract: A short distance reflected pattern decorating plate that compromises a base, a decorating plate, a front plate and a circuit board that makes the decorating plate brighter and clearer, and to emphasize the decorating plate with a bright light circle.

Abstract: A device that fits over a license plate of either an automobile, truck or motorcycle that has a circuit built into it and gets hooked up to vehicle power source. The circuit consists of four rows of Infrared led's strategically place in front of the letters and or numbers on the license plate. When powered up the led's will turn on causing them to shine outward from the plate. The human eye can not see the infrared light causing no obstruction to the license plate and will remain readable. When a CCTV camera that is used in the security or law enforcement industry is used for the purpose of photographing your license plate to issue tickets through the mail your license plate will be unreadable and therefore unable to issue you a citation.

Abstract: A trading card having an electroluminescent feature in combination with a display stand providing a power source. When the trading card is placed in the display stand, the power source from the display stand energizes the electroluminescent feature of the trading card, thereby providing illuminated graphics and making the trading card more interactive. The trading card can include a circuit that facilitates moving graphics displays and can further drive a speaker to allow for audio in conjunction with the illumination.

Abstract: An illuminated card device formed from sheet stock, for use as a greeting card or the like. One or more EL lamps are attached either flat against the card or mounted as pop-up elements. Two wires lead out from the EL lamps to a high voltage driver circuitry that converts a low voltage signal into an AC high voltage signal (approximately 40V to 300V peak to peak.) This circuitry is mounted on a PCB, hidden from view. A sliding tab in the shape of a ‘t’ slides through two slits in the card. Metal elements are mounted to the tab and between the two slits. When the card is opened, the two metal elements make contact, creating an electrical short to allow the battery to supply current to the high voltage conversion circuit. The high voltage driver circuit provides signals to illuminate the EL lamps.

Abstract: A fluorescent label for a computer keyboard key. The label is adhesive backed, having two layers of plastic vinyl such as Mylar and is rectangular and corresponds with the size of the key face and the character or message on the key. A kit is a sheet, having a set of labels for the various sizes of keys of a computer keyboard and the character or message thereon removable from the. The first layer of plastic vinyl has adhesive for attachment to a key face having a peel off paper backing and having a printed luminescent paint or ink on its upper side. An indicia is printed on the background corresponding to the key. A second layer of transparent plastic vinyl covers the luminescent layer.

Abstract: In some embodiments of the present invention, a vending machine display apparatus and method includes a controller, an electroluminescent display electrically coupled to the controller and adapted to be coupled to the vending machine in a location externally visible on the vending machine, and a power line coupled to the electroluminescent display and adapted to supply power to the electroluminescent display. The electroluminescent display can be associated with the user-manipulatable control and/or with a product in the vending machine dispensed by operation of the user-manipulatable control. In some embodiments, the electroluminescent display is responsive to the controller by changing graphics and/or text displayed by the display.

Abstract: A trading card having an electroluminescent feature in combination with a display stand providing a power source. When the trading card is placed in the display stand, the power source from the display stand energizes the electroluminescent feature of the trading card, thereby providing illuminated graphics and making the trading card more interactive. The trading card can include a circuit that facilitates moving graphics displays and can further drive a speaker to allow for audio in conjunction with the illumination.

Abstract: A sign or ornament comprising an etched or otherwise formed translucent light scattering design, lettering, or shape within a matrix contained in the body of a sign or ornament, said sign or ornament having included therewith at least one opening, said opening having contained therewith at least one light source and preferably a light-emitting diode, wherein light emerging from the light source and preferred light-emitting diode incident upon the light scattering translucent design lettering or shape of the sign or the ornament will be enhanced to a much greater extent than any light emanating from the transparent portions of the sign/ornament.

Abstract: A visual display unit comprising a panel and housing with said housing enclosed by an aluminum extrusion, said extrusion houses at least one printed circuit board and light emitting diodes which are attached to said at least one printed circuit board, said light emitting diodes are insulated and attached to said at least one printed circuit board, a bracket and junction box are attached to said aluminum extrusion, with power coming through said junction box, sealant is used between said aluminum extrusion and said panel, light is projected through said panel and reflected out.

Abstract: A durable colored article having fluorescent properties comprises a substantially solventless polyvinyl chloride matrix, a thioxanthene fluorescent dye, and a secondary or tertiary hindered amine light stabilizer having a molecular weight less than about 1000 grams/mole. The invention has the advantage in that it provides a flexible polyvinyl chloride film that exhibits durable fluorescent colors.

Abstract: A cold light emitting decoration includes a front plate made of a pliable plastic material and having a recess formed at a rear side thereof for accommodating a cold light emitting sheet and a driving circuit board therein, and a shutter sealing the cold light emitting sheet and the circuit board in the recess of the front plate. The front plate is provided with a specific design, of which some areas are cut away or kept transparent, so that cold light emitted from the cold light emitting sheet passes through the design via the cutaway or transparent areas to create a colorful and luminescent appearance for the decoration. The cold light emitting decoration provides some extent of flexibility and is therefore suitable for attaching to or sewing in differently shaped articles.

Abstract: A folding traffic-warning device includes an enclosure and enclosure base define first and second ballast compartments, which may be filed with sand, liquid or other material to provide stability during use. A circuit and a battery holder are carried between the first and second ballast compartments. The circuit provides power to a plurality of LEDs carried by a stationary light bar and first and second folding light bars. The folding light bars may be moved between an operational position and a storage position. An axle passing through the enclosure has an upper end attached to the stationary light bar and a lower end attached to a stabilizer bar. In an in-use or operational position, the stabilize bar is oriented perpendicular to the enclosure. In a storage position, the stabilizer bar is oriented parallel to the enclosure.