Three-dimensional Alphanumeric Structure Patents (Class 40/552)
  • Patent number: 11862043
    Abstract: Disclosed in the present invention is a letter and number-shaped decorative panel, composed of two parts, a base plate and a side plate, the base plate is arranged in a shape of a letter or a number, a plurality of first slots are arranged at intervals along a periphery of an edge of the shape of the base plate on the base plate, the side plate is perpendicularly provided along the periphery of the edge of the shape of the base plate, and first insertion plates corresponding to the first slots are provided at a side of the side plate close to the base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2023
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Inventor: Linghua Jin
  • Patent number: 11837111
    Abstract: There is provided a sign assembly comprising: an illumination panel; a decorative panel mounted to the illumination panel and comprising informational graphics; and one or more light sources positioned such that the illumination panel is illuminated by the one or more light sources to provide a light band about the decorative panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: Steel Art Company
    Inventor: John Borell
  • Patent number: 10858860
    Abstract: A door lock apparatus including a door lock housing, a door lock, and a keypad operatively connected to the door lock housing and to the door lock. The keypad includes a protective layer, a decorative layer, and a light source, wherein the protective layer is disposed next to the decorative layer and the decorative layer is disposed between the protective layer and the light source. The decorative layer includes a first surface having a first material located thereon and a second surface having a second material located thereon, and wherein the first material and the second material are generally aligned to provide indicia having a three-dimensional appearance with the indicia being offset from a background plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventor: Chris R. Snider
  • Patent number: 10832600
    Abstract: A display prop splicing device includes display bodies, luminous bodies, and connecting bodies. A first mounting site and a second mounting site are respectively formed at two ends of each connecting body. A third mounting site and a fourth mounting site are respectively formed at two ends of each display body. A first magnet and a second magnet which are attracted to each other are arranged in each first mounting site and each third mounting site, as well as in each second mounting site and each fourth mounting site. Conductive poles used for electrical connection between the adjacent display bodies are embedded into the outer edges of each first magnet and each second magnet. At least one display body is electrically connected with an external electrical control device through a power line. Multiple display bodies are conveniently and flexibly spliced through the first, second, third and fourth mounting sites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: SHENZHEN FOGUANG LIGHTING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Qingping Deng
  • Patent number: 10755609
    Abstract: Individual address numbers are provided which can be illuminated using solar energy to completely power the illumination at night would result in great savings in electricity to residential consumers and commercial establishments. The foregoing features are provided by equipping individual address numbers with the necessary elements and circuitry to gather and store solar energy for use in the evening to power light emitting diodes to illuminate each respective individual number. Additionally, wireless capability may be provided which allows the illumination of the individual address numbers to be turned on and off in the event illumination is needed prior to darkness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Inventor: Theresa Harris
  • Patent number: 10446064
    Abstract: Provided is a light emitting device 1 for design, the device capable of achieving a light emission surface 3 having esthetic effects without being influenced by a fixation structure between a light design part 4 and a housing 6.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: DAIKAN CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Akio Saito
  • Patent number: 9721486
    Abstract: A frame panel for a three-dimensional sign board, a three-dimensional sign board including the panel, and a manufacturing method therefor. The frame panel includes a band-shaped frame panel which is cut into a predetermined length and wound in the form of a coil so that the frame panel can be bent and shaped into a desired pattern such as a character; and hitch units on which an upper panel is fixated, which are formed along the longitudinal direction of the frame panel and which are spaced apart from each other on two ends of one side of the frame panel. The hitch units are made of a soft synthetic resin material, which is the same material as used for the upper panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: SEOUL LASER DIEBOARD SYSTEM CO. LTD.
    Inventors: Kwang Yrul Yoon, Sang Moo Lee
  • Patent number: 9653007
    Abstract: A channel letter has a rear surface for mounting against a raceway, wall, or a structure for supporting the signage, and sheet metal sides defining the figuration of the letter or shape to be depicted. A lighting element is positioned against the rear surface of the enclosure, and a lens is retained to the open front of the enclosure. The lens is secured with a retainer cap and a plurality of retainer clips. Each of the retainer clips comprises as least one side including an outwardly extending leg for retention with the retainer cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Inventors: Clyde H. Boyer, Robert Schilling
  • Patent number: 9589486
    Abstract: A sign apparatus includes a front display panel and a solid halo panel that are illuminated by a light module. The front display panel is arranged along one side of a frame and the solid halo panel is arranged on the other side of the frame. The light module is disposed within the frame between the front display panel and the solid halo panel. The solid halo panel follows a contour of the front display panel and extends beyond a periphery of the front display panel such that the solid halo panel forms a halo border along the periphery of the front display panel when viewed from a direction toward the front display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Inventor: Salim D. Haddad
  • Patent number: 9548008
    Abstract: The present inventor devised, among other things, one or more exemplary systems, kits, methods, devices, assemblies, components, and/or software and related graphical interfaces related to signs with interchangeable illumination elements. One exemplary embodiment includes an illuminated sign assembly of two or more alphanumeric lighting elements formed of a transparent or translucent injection- or blow-molded plastic and including a number of surface-mounted light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Each of the alphanumeric elements plugs into power track, and can be independently rotated to a desired orientation relative the power track. In some embodiments, the each of the elements can be wireless controlled or programmed via a smartphone to blink or change colors according to a desired pattern or in response to ambient conditions. In still other embodiments, the lighting elements vertically stack onto a recharge station, and in yet others the elements are powered or recharged via resonant inductive coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: Joshua Manning
  • Patent number: 9530334
    Abstract: A physically-discrete sign component comprises an internally-electrically-illuminated alphabetic character having a front-facing profile and at least one connecting bar disposed at least substantially horizontally with respect to the front-facing profile of the alphabetic character and at least partially within the front-facing profile of that alphabetic character. By one approach the physically-discrete sign component includes two of the connecting bars. If desired, these two connecting bars are disposed at least substantially parallel to one another. By one approach, a first one of the connecting bars extends partially, but not wholly, above an upper periphery of the aforementioned front-facing profile while the second connecting bar extends partially, but not wholly, below a lower periphery of the front-facing profile. The connecting bars can include a connecting-bar interface configured to physically and electrically interconnect to an adjacent sign component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: iLight Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean Edward Callahan, James Cuppini, Mark Joseph Cleaver, Timothy Edward Canzano, Edward Wayted Chen, Elizabeth Marie Randgaard, Chad Glenn Kirschner, Stephen Michael Oshgan, Paresh Shroff, Joseph Z. Wascow, Nicholas Patrick Jackson, Brian Alan Retzke, Daniel John Williams
  • Patent number: 9336699
    Abstract: A sign apparatus includes a front display panel and a solid halo panel that are illuminated by a light module. The front display panel is arranged along one side of a frame and the solid halo panel is arranged on the other side of the frame. The light module is disposed within the frame between the front display panel and the solid halo panel. The solid halo panel follows a contour of the front display panel and extends beyond a periphery of the front display panel such that the solid halo panel forms a halo border along the periphery of the front display panel when viewed from a direction toward the front display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Inventor: Salim D. Haddad
  • Patent number: 9275562
    Abstract: Disclosed is an advertising apparatus capable of motion sensitive illumination and 180° viewing, which includes a top piece, a bottom piece, a back piece, one or more front side pieces capable of edge illumination, wherein the top piece, the bottom piece the back piece and the one or more front side pieces are mechanically coupled together to form the assembled advertising apparatus, and a universal mounting system base plate reversibly coupled to the back piece. In addition, an advertising apparatus capable of motion sensitive illumination and 180° viewing includes an illumination source for illuminating the front side pieces, a motion sensor, for detecting motion of a potential customer, and a power source to power the advertising apparatus, wherein the illumination source and the motion sensor are coupled to the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Inventor: H. Christopher Bazos
  • Patent number: 9038295
    Abstract: A physically-discrete sign component comprises an internally-electrically-illuminated alphabetic character having a front-facing profile and at least one connecting bar disposed at least substantially horizontally with respect to the front-facing profile of the alphabetic character and at least partially within the front-facing profile of that alphabetic character. By one approach the physically-discrete sign component includes two of the connecting bars. If desired, these two connecting bars are disposed at least substantially parallel to one another. By one approach, a first one of the connecting bars extends partially, but not wholly, above an upper periphery of the aforementioned front-facing profile while the second connecting bar extends partially, but not wholly, below a lower periphery of the front-facing profile. The connecting bars can include a connecting-bar interface configured to physically and electrically interconnect to an adjacent sign component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: iLight Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean Edward Callahan, James Cuppini, Mark Joseph Cleaver, Timothy Edward Canzano, Edward Wayted Chen, Elizabeth Marie Randgaard, Chad Glenn Kirschner, Stephen Michael Oshgan, Paresh Shroff, Joseph Z. Wascow, Nicholas Patrick Jackson, Brian Alan Retzke, Daniel John Williams
  • Patent number: 8887422
    Abstract: A physically-discrete sign component comprises an internally-electrically-illuminated alphabetic character having a front-facing profile and at least one connecting bar disposed at least substantially horizontally with respect to the front-facing profile of the alphabetic character and at least partially within the front-facing profile of that alphabetic character. By one approach the physically-discrete sign component includes two of the connecting bars. If desired, these two connecting bars are disposed at least substantially parallel to one another. By one approach, a first one of the connecting bars extends partially, but not wholly, above an upper periphery of the aforementioned front-facing profile while the second connecting bar extends partially, but not wholly, below a lower periphery of the front-facing profile. The connecting bars can include a connecting-bar interface configured to physically and electrically interconnect to an adjacent sign component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: iLight Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean Edward Callahan, Mark Joseph Cleaver, James Cuppini, Timothy Edward Canzano, Edward Wayted Chen, Elizabeth Marie Randgaard, Chad Glenn Kirschner, Stephen Michael Oshgan, Paresh Shroff, Joseph Z. Wascow, Nicholas Patrick Jackson, Brian Alan Retzke, Daniel John Williams
  • Publication number: 20140237872
    Abstract: A three-dimensional signboard and a making method thereof are provided. The three-dimensional signboard comprises an upper unit and a lower unit which are connected; the upper unit comprising a main portion (1) for reflecting the identification shape of the three-dimensional signboard; the lower unit comprising sidewall (3) connected to the main portion (1), wherein the sidewall (3) encircles the main portion (1) for supporting, and a cavity is formed therebetween; and connecting portion (2) arranged between the main portion (1) and the sidewall (3), the connecting portion (2) comprises a plurality of step layers arranged in stack, and the step layer each comprises an upper step plate and a lower step plate which are connected. The signboard is very stereoscopic and easy to be identified; and the making method thereof has a simple process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: WU JIANG YU XING METAL ART DECORATION CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Xinghua Shen
  • Patent number: 8756841
    Abstract: A channel letter has a rear surface for mounting against a raceway, wall, or a structure for supporting the signage, and sheet metal sides defining the figuration of the letter or shape to be depicted. A lighting element is positioned against the rear surface of the enclosure, and a lens is retained to the open front of the enclosure. The lens is retained by a plurality of retainer clips. Each of the retainer clips has a first and a second side extending from an arched back with the sides spaced a distance sufficient for the sides to fit around the end of the walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: SignComp, LLC
    Inventor: Clyde H. Boyer
  • Patent number: 8701319
    Abstract: A channel letter has a rear surface for mounting against a raceway, wall, or a structure for supporting the signage, and sheet metal sides defining the figuration of the letter or shape to be depicted. A lighting element is positioned against the rear surface of the enclosure, and a lens is retained to the open front of the enclosure. The lens is secured with a retainer cap and a plurality of retainer clips. Each of the retainer clips comprises as least one side including an outwardly extending leg for retention with the retainer cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: SignComp, LLC
    Inventor: Clyde H. Boyer
  • Publication number: 20130326921
    Abstract: The present application relates to the field of advertising lamp, in particular to a three-dimensional metallic character and the manufacturing method thereof. The three-dimensional metallic character includes: each stroke of the three-dimensional metallic character is made up by two planes which are intersecting to present a shape of mountain ridge; the ridge portion the mountain ridge constitutes the font; the ridge surface forming the mountain ridge has holes thereon; the bottom of the ridge surface forming the mountain ridge is longitudinally connected to a side surface. The three-dimensional metallic character and the manufacturing method thereof provided by the present application are novel in character structure and durable in use. When electrified in the night, the character provided herein presents eye-catching and artistic visual effect, and meanwhile beautifies urban night scene.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: WU JIANG YU XING METAL ART DECORATION CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Xinghua Shen
  • Patent number: 8484871
    Abstract: A channel sign assembly is provided having a rear surface for mounting against a raceway, wall, or a structure for supporting the signage, and sheet metal sides which define the figuration of the sign assembly or shape to be depicted. A lighting element is positioned against the rear surface of the enclosure, and a lens is retained to the open front of the enclosure. The lens is retained by a screw-less retainer cap secured to the sign assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: Clyde H. Boyer
  • Patent number: 8419253
    Abstract: A lighting display system having an anti-theft feature has a mounting structure having at least one mounting plate having a front side and a back side, first and second conductor lines carried by the at least one mounting plate, and a plurality of luminescent bodies, wherein each of the plurality of luminescent bodies has first and second contact plugs exposed at a back side of the luminescent body and connected to the first and second conductor lines where a line extending between centres of the first and second contact plugs is oriented at an angle of more than 105° or less than 85° relative to a direction of extension of the first conductor line, and a plurality of light sources electrically connected to the first and second conductor lines via the first and second plugs and fixing members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Mass & Ross AG
    Inventor: Alexander Burrak
  • Publication number: 20120023794
    Abstract: The present lighting units provide an effective means by which a sports fan may express his support for a favorite team or school, whether it be a professional team, a collegiate team or college, or a high school team or high school. The portable lighting unit includes a housing having the appearance of a plurality of connected tiers, each of the tiers having a differing dimension such that the tiers convey a stair-step configuration. To represent the sports team or school, at least two three-dimensional alphabetic characters are affixed to a front surface of the tiers. A solar-powered lighting fixture is attached to the uppermost surface of the top tier to provide illumination for outdoor or indoor use. The housing and lettering may feature the team colors. A method of producing the lighting unit is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventors: Sue Ann Kerecman, Jamie Dee Elerick
  • Publication number: 20110277362
    Abstract: A direct point LED sign employs the use of flat head LED's embedded within a mirrored reflective panel where an upper layer of varying distance from the mirrored surface comprises a crushed ice diffuser with an irregular front surface which reflects and intensifies light passing therein creating an enlarged surface area of the LED's. This in turn greatly increases the readability of the character members in road and highway signs, commercial signs, or individual letters, numbers, and symbols.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: William Ahmadi
  • Publication number: 20110271569
    Abstract: A display presenting a multi-faceted illumination effect includes a housing having an opening and a light source within the housing. A cover at least partially covers the opening of the housing and has a plurality of facets that are angled with respect to each other. One or more of the angles are formed such that facets abutting at the angles are visibly distinct to an observer outside the housing when illuminated by the light source within the housing to produce the multi-faceted illumination effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventors: Charles R. Nelson, Tim G. Fallon
  • Patent number: 7784205
    Abstract: An improved display is disclosed for a dispensing machine having a plurality of switches for dispensing a plurality of products. The improved display comprises a plurality of illuminators located in proximity to the plurality of switches. A decorative panel indicates the types of the plurality of products for dispensing by the dispensing machine. A mounting fixes the decorative panel for enabling the plurality of illuminators to illuminate the decorative panel. A control is connected to the plurality of switches for energizing the plurality of illuminators in response to an actuation of a selected one of the plurality of switches for indicating the dispensing of one of the plurality of products by the dispensing machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Richard D. Baron, Steven A. Garbee
  • Patent number: 7685753
    Abstract: An illuminated, shallow weatherproof signage character has individual three dimensional back-lighted/front/side and/or silhouette-lighting, with frosted areas of plastic, with virtually no limitation on the size or number of individual characters, which may be moulded or machined from solid plastic, which is U/V protected. Miniature, preferably LED lamps are concealed in the character. The life of the LED lamps is extended by limiting the applied voltage and the “on” time. The signage characters are usually elevated from their supporting surface, to effect back-lighting. Colored LED's or a RBG LED, can be used selectively to color the plastic signage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventor: Darrel R. Slowski
  • Publication number: 20090013570
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for the thermal management of one or more light emitting diode (LED) modules disposed within a channel sign are disclosed. The apparatus, in various aspects, detects the ambient temperature generally proximate the LED module and regulates the current flowed onto the LED's within the LED module based upon the ambient temperature. Methods for thermal management of the one or more LED modules disposed within a channel sign are disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Zdenko Grajcar
  • Patent number: 7467486
    Abstract: A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) disposed in a customized housing produce bright colored light simulating the appearance of a neon sign. The housing includes an opaque portion that reflects light from the LEDs and a translucent portion shaped in the form of an image or lettering that diffuses light from the LEDs. The inside surface of the opaque portion has a polished reflective surface while the outside surface has a dull textured surface. Light emanating from the LEDs propagates through the translucent portion of the housing appearing to a viewer as a bright uniform and colorful light similar in appearance to the light emitted from a neon sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Andy K. F. Kaoh
  • Publication number: 20080016734
    Abstract: An illuminated sign and method of making includes a series of characters formed of solid, substantially transparent material. The series of characters may collectively define a footprint and a first thickness. A sheet of material, formed separately from the series of characters, defines a base and a second thickness. The base defines a series of openings formed therein and collectively defines a shape suitable to accept the footprint defined by the letters in an assembled position. A housing retains the base and has a light source therein. The light source may be adapted to direct light through the base and the series of characters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Inventor: Ismael Basha
  • Publication number: 20070283604
    Abstract: A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) disposed in a customized housing produce bright colored light simulating the appearance of a neon sign. The housing includes an opaque portion that reflects light from the LEDs and a translucent portion shaped in the form of an image or lettering that diffuses light from the LEDs. The inside surface of the opaque portion has a polished reflective surface while the outside surface has a dull textured surface. Light emanating from the LEDs propagates through the translucent portion of the housing appearing to a viewer as a bright uniform and colorful light similar in appearance to the light emitted from a neon sign.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventor: Andy K. F. Kaoh
  • Patent number: 7293441
    Abstract: A versatile system for producing channel letter coil of superior reflectivity and durability is described that includes providing a readily formable substrate. A first reflective material is disposed upon a first surface of the substrate. A second reflective material is disposed upon the first reflective material. An aesthetic material is disposed upon a second surface of the substrate. The entire substrate, with the reflective and aesthetic materials intact, is then rolled into a channel letter coil product, ready for immediate and efficient use in sign production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Amerimax Building Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Nancy Rapp, Lynn Noesser, David Buffington, Jeremy Kolias, Jeff Condino
  • Patent number: 7213956
    Abstract: A display includes a display lightguide, on which a shape of a display character is formed in three dimensions, a light source, emitting a light toward the display lightguide, and a light collection portion, provided between the light source and the display lightguide, and having a light reflection face formed like a parabolic face which employs a straight line perpendicular to a light receiving face of the display lightguide as an axis thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshiyuki Furuya, Tetsuya Sugiyama
  • Patent number: 7162821
    Abstract: An illuminated sign or nametag achieving the even glow and brightness of neon light displays without neon light tubes. Each character or symbol of the sign or nametag contains a plurality of light emitting members. Each such indicia comprises a light diffusion layer illuminated by light emitting members disposed on, near or in the light diffusion layer. A permanent or temporary masking layer partially covers the light diffusion layer to form a glowing border around the masking layer. Reflective layers covering either or both faces of the light diffusion layer may be used to intensify the light emitted therefrom. By the particular arrangement of the reflective surfaces relative to the light diffusion layer, electromagnetic radiation in the form of visible light from the light emitting members is controlled to provide an aura that enhances formed outlines or contours of light around the indicia making up the sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Identity Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Ravi Venkataraman, Todd William Meeks
  • Patent number: 7080927
    Abstract: A modular light assembly is provided. The light assembly includes a light housing with sides, an electrical light source inside the housing and connected to a connector on at least one side of the housing, and a pin for pivotally, electrically and detachably connecting the side with the connector to a side of another housing having the connector. The connector includes a quarter turn receptacle set into a dielectric medium, which is surrounded by a conductive metal ring. The electrical light source may be a plurality of LED lamps connected to a printed circuit board, which is connected to the connector. The light assembly may also be connected to other electrical and non-electrical devices having a connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventors: Stephen Feuerborn, David Bruce Liatti
  • Patent number: 6907685
    Abstract: A portable display unit is provided that illuminates a symbol formed by the unit. The display unit has a body substantially forming the symbol, which has an outline surface for receiving a rope light. The outline surface defines an inner region of the symbol and at least a section of the body substantially fills the inner region. The display unit further includes a rope light attached to the outline surface and connected to a power cord, as well as a hanging element attached to the body for removably attaching the unit to a support surface. The body and rope light may have various colors to enhance the symbol or represent colors for the logo formed by the symbol. In one embodiment, the body defines a channel and the outline surface forms a surface of the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Lighted Logos, L.C.
    Inventors: Jason R. Falkner, Paul Lankford, Scott L. Biron
  • Patent number: 6826860
    Abstract: A portable wordsign arrangement includes a wordsign supporter, a power supply supported by the wordsign supporter, a word character arrangement, which is formed by a plurality of illuminating characters, comprising at least a rope light having an electric connector end electrically connected to the power supply, wherein the rope light is shaped into the illuminating characters for increasing a visibility of the word character arrangement at a low light condition, and a plurality of mounting elements securely mounting the illuminating characters of the word character arrangement on the wordsign supporter. Therefore, the word character arrangement enables the user to customize each of the illuminating characters via the rope light to form as an indication sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventors: Yu-Chow Ko, Yong Qiang Liu
  • Publication number: 20040111937
    Abstract: A channel letter has a rear surface for mounting against a raceway, wall, or a structure for supporting the signage, and sides defining the figuration of the letter of shape to be depicted. A lighting element is positioned against the rear surface of the enclosure, and a lens is retained to the open front of the enclosure. The lens is retained to a shoulder recessed within the walls of the enclosure. As a first alternative, the lens is retained to the shoulder and has a sealing edging is fitted around the perimeter of the lens. As a second alternative a lens having dimensions greater than those of the enclosure may be retained across the forward end thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventors: Anton Grate, Cheryl Grate
  • Patent number: 6748686
    Abstract: A channel letter has a rear surface for mounting against a raceway, wall, or a structure for supporting the signage, and sheet metal sides defining the figuration of the letter of shape to be depicted. A lighting element is positioned against the rear surface of the enclosure, and a lens is retained to the open front of the enclosure. The lens is retained by a plurality of retainer clips to a shoulder recessed within the walls of the enclosure and a cable between opposing walls provides lateral support to the walls. Each of the retainer clips has a first and a second leg extending from a back with the legs spaced a distance sufficient for the legs to fit around the end of the sheet metal of the walls. A partially flexible finger extends from one of the legs into the space between the legs so a to wedge against a surface of the sheet metal wall and thereby retain the retainer clip to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventors: Anton Grate, Cheryl Grate
  • Patent number: 6735893
    Abstract: A sign for a vehicle has a three-dimensional base equipped with an opaque surface coating, and a backside of the base is placed on and attached to a vehicle part. The sign is equipped with an indirect lighting device so as to allow recognition of the sign at dawn or dusk or in the dark.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG
    Inventor: Erhard Wolf
  • Patent number: 6722065
    Abstract: An illuminated indicia enclosure apparatus includes a rear panel fixedly attached to an upstanding surface, the rear panel having apertures disposed therein for receiving and mounting one or more lighting elements on an inner surface thereof, an indicia-defining fascia, the fascia having a front panel and generally opposing side panels extending therefrom, and hinged tension securement elements for securing the fascia to the rear panel, wherein the hinged tension securement elements are configured to provide expedient installment and removal of the fascia to the rear panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Gemini, Inc.
    Inventor: David Schmitt
  • Patent number: 6708433
    Abstract: A portable display unit is provided that illuminates a symbol formed by the unit. The display unit has a frame that forms an inner portion of the symbol and a backing sheet in the shape of the symbol that substantially covers the inner portion. The display unit further includes a rope light that surrounds the backing and thereby outlines the symbol. The rope light includes a power cord and a power connector for connecting to a power supply. The backing and display unit may have various colors to enhance the symbol or represent colors for the logo formed by the symbol. The display unit also includes hanging elements for removably attaching the unit to a support structure. In one embodiment, the hanging elements include suction cups for attaching the display unit to a window of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Lighted Logos, L. C.
    Inventors: Jason R. Falkner, Paul Lankford, Scott L. Biron
  • Patent number: 6663267
    Abstract: A system for defining a plurality of work zones within an otherwise open area. The system includes a framework formed from a plurality of spaced apart poles extending upward from a base surface. The poles are interconnected by a plurality of crossbeams at a height substantially above a standing user. At least some of the poles are adapted to provide a raceway for the delivery of utilities. The system also includes a height-adjustable light fixture connected to the crossbeams. The light fixture extends outward from the crossbeams and is capable of projecting a light beam directly downward on the work zone of a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Herman Miller Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Newhouse, Ayse Birsel
  • Patent number: 6655060
    Abstract: A channel letter has a rear surface for mounting against a raceway, wall, or a structure for supporting the signage, and sides defining the figuration of the letter of shape to be depicted. A lighting element is positioned against the rear surface of the enclosure, and a lens is retained to the open front of the enclosure. The lens may be retained by a plurality of retainers to a shoulder recessed within the walls of the enclosure. As a first alternative, the retainers may retain a lens without a shoulder where a sealing edging is fitted around the perimeter of the lens. As a second alternative a lens having dimensions greater than those of the enclosure may be retained across the forward end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventors: Anton Grate, Cheryl Grate
  • Publication number: 20030204975
    Abstract: A sign comprises a frame (12) formed in the shape of a team or player logo, outlined by light rope (12) and fitted with suction cups (18) on the front of the sign. The rope light (10) is securely tied to frame (12) and connected to a cigarette lighter adapter (14) so that it can be provided with electrical power from a car battery and displayed from inside a car window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Lee B. Holder, Brad M. Boozer
  • Patent number: 6594931
    Abstract: The present device relates to an apparatus and system used in lighting or illuminating signs, logos or sidewall letters using fluorescent lights or lamps, alone or in combination with reflective coating which can be applied to the sign interior, and reflective surfaces added in the sign interior, to deflect, disperse, reflect and direct the light emitted form the fluorescent lamps to a sign front. The apparatus and system comprises a back panel having sidewalls proximate the perimeter of the back panel and which extend upwardly to form a light channel. Sockets for receiving fluorescent lamps and their corresponding ballasts are mounted separately to the back panel such that the distance between the fluorescent lamps and the top of the light channel is maximized and the distance between the socket and the back panel is minimized. The distribution, number and relative position of the sockets and corresponding ballasts on the back panel can be adjusted to achieve the desired light illumination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventors: Jeffrey C. Barton, Hans M Deitrich
  • Patent number: 6557282
    Abstract: A portable illuminated outdoor advertising display comprises a plurality of modules, a portion of which are removably secured to said frame structure, collectively forming a matrix of modules when juxtaposed adjacent one another in predetermined positions on a surface of the frame structure. An illumination device is secured to at least one of the modules such that the surface of the matrix together with said illumination device forms a visually apparent indicia or a design when the modules are in said predetermined positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Ilight Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark J. Cleaver
  • Publication number: 20030079388
    Abstract: An illuminated indicia enclosure apparatus includes a rear panel fixedly attached to an upstanding surface, the rear panel having apertures disposed therein for receiving and mounting one or more lighting elements on an inner surface thereof, an indicia-defining fascia, the fascia having a front panel and generally opposing side panels extending therefrom, and hinged tension securement elements for securing the fascia to the rear panel, wherein the hinged tension securement elements are configured to provide expedient installment and removal of the fascia to the rear panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventor: David Schmitt
  • Patent number: 6457286
    Abstract: A user controlled ornamental panel or window, which is useful for a number of applications in which the degree or amount of light passing through the panel is to be controlled. One such application is to control the amount of light, ambient or otherwise, entering through a window. The ability to control the amount of ambient light entering through a vehicle window and/or window of a dwelling is particularly useful. The present invention enables the user to control the amount of ambient light passing through the ornamental panel, such that the lighting of the environment is determined by the user without permanently blocking or altering the ability of the ornamental panel to permit the entry of light. Such flexibility is important for adjusting the amount of light entering through the panel according to the ambient lighting of the external environment, which would differ during daylight hours as opposed to the night, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventors: Tuvya Eliyahu, Israel Mansherov
  • Publication number: 20020104241
    Abstract: A channel letter has a rear surface for mounting against a raceway, wall, or a structure for supporting the signage, and sheet metal sides defining the figuration of the letter of shape to be depicted. A lighting element is positioned against the rear surface of the enclosure, and a lens is retained to the open front of the enclosure. The lens is retained by a plurality of retainer clips to a shoulder recessed within the walls of the enclosure and a cable between opposing walls provides lateral support to the walls. Each of the retainer clips has a first and a second leg extending from a back with the legs spaced a distance sufficient for the legs to fit around the end of the sheet metal of the walls. A partially flexible finger extends from one of the legs into the space between the legs so a to wedge against a surface of the sheet metal wall and thereby retain the retainer clip to the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Inventors: Anton Grate, Cheryl Grate
  • Publication number: 20010042330
    Abstract: A channel letter has a rear surface for mounting against a raceway, wall, or a structure for supporting the signage, and sides defining the figuration of the letter of shape to be depicted. A lighting element is positioned against the rear surface of the enclosure, and a lens is retained to the open front of the enclosure. The lens may br retained by a plurality of retainers to a shoulder recessed within the walls of the enclosure. As a first alternative, the retainers may retain a lens without a shoulder where a sealing edging is fitted around the perimeter of the lens. As a second alternative a lens having dimensions greater than those of the enclosure may be retained across the forward end thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Anton Grate, Cheryl Grate