Detachable Or Hinged Cover Patents (Class 40/574)
  • Patent number: 11746988
    Abstract: A colored light filtration apparatus for changing the light color emitted from the light source of cell phones is disclosed herein. The colored light filtration apparatus may include a head portion and a body portion. The head portion of the colored light filtration apparatus may change the light colors once applied over the light source. The body portion of the colored light filtration apparatus may be configured to stick to the cell phone or its case and position the head portion over the light source. The colored light filtration apparatus may be easy to apply and remove in order to create easy swapping of colors. The colored light filtration apparatus may be narrow enough in size to prevent disruption with surrounding cameras and cases of the cell phone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2022
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Inventor: Nicole McKee
  • Patent number: 11361684
    Abstract: A production method for a poster device with two boards and a frame as well as a poster device. One permanently fixed board is attached to the frame. The other board is removable and can be removed without tools. The frame may be a snap frame and the removable board may be held by snapping elements of the snap frame. The removable board can be removed after the snapping elements have been opened. The method comprises the following steps: ?providing a frame and a permanently fixed board comprising a frame-like groove, ?placing the frame and the permanently fixed board horizontally, ?pouring a flowable gasket material into the frame-like groove so that the groove is completely filled with the flowable gasket material and the flowable gasket material sticks out from the groove, ?solidifying the gasket material in such a way that it will not solidify for at least minutes, preferably for at least 20 minutes, ?placing the removable board onto the solidified gasket material, ?fixing the removable board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Assignee: M.T Reklam Anonim Şirketi
    Inventor: Ali Topcuoglu
  • Patent number: 10995916
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a rigid and lighted flag assembly for a vehicle. The flag assembly is preferably comprised of a flag mast, a rigid flag, a plurality of lights for lighting the flag, and a power source for powering the lights. The flag assembly allows the content of the flag to be viewable at all times, regardless of the vehicle's speed and regardless of the time of day or night. The flag portion of the flag assembly is less susceptible to the elements, such as wind, snow, sleet, rain, and the like, as well as harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun. Further, the flag assembly is capable of simultaneously supporting more than one rigid flag device at a time, and does not negatively affect the aerodynamics of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Inventor: Matthew Murphy
  • Patent number: 10701819
    Abstract: A housing structure of an information display unit includes a casing, two extensible elements and a brace. The casing has therein a receiving space. A window is disposed on a front side of the casing and is in communication with the receiving space. The top ends and bottom ends of the extensible elements are pivotally disposed at the top end of the brace and the bottom of the casing such that the brace is liftably disposed on the front side of the casing. A screen is connectedly disposed on the brace. A circuit module electrically connected to the screen is disposed in the receiving space. To repair the circuit module in the casing or the screen on the brace, a technician merely lifts the brace such that the extensible elements turn forward and then extend upward so as to support the screen, rendering the repair convenient and quick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: LITEMAX ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Tien-Teng Yang, Ling-Chi Lo, Chun-Hung Chen
  • Patent number: 10410557
    Abstract: A display apparatus has a panel for receiving and/or displaying advertising material. The apparatus also includes a connector that is attachable to the panel, and a fastener for removably connecting the panel to a pipe of a beverage font. The fastener is removably attachable to the connector in two or more orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Cub Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Karl McIntyre
  • Patent number: 10274668
    Abstract: Provided is a light fixture comprising: a) a frame; b) a metal backing attached to the frame; and c) one or more LED strips with a plurality of light sources placed running in a horizontal direction against a side of the frame, the LED strip placed in such manner that the light source of the LED strip has a vertical orientation and faces inside of the frame. Provided is a light fixture comprising: a) a frame; b) a metal backing attached to the frame; and c) one or more LED strips with a plurality of light sources placed running in a horizontal direction against a side of the frame, the LED strip placed in such manner that the light source of the LED strip has a vertical orientation and faces inside of the frame. d) a glass sheet placed in front of the LED strip; e) a film sheet below the LED strip; f) a reflective sheet behind the glass sheet; and g) a metal sheet behind the reflective sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Inventor: Hamid Rashidi Doust
  • 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: 8424230
    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 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: Clyde H. Boyer
  • Patent number: 8418387
    Abstract: An isolated access assembly for a back-to-back electronic display and static display setup. A central housing contains an electronic display with a static display being hingedly attached to the central housing on the opposite side of the electronic display. The static display can rotate to allow access to the rear of the electronic display without permitting access to the static display itself. A front door may be hingedly attached to the central housing and placed in front of the electronic display to allow the front portion of the electronic display to be accessed and serviced. A rear door may be hingedly attached to the static display to allow the static display to be accessed and serviced. A first locking mechanism may control access to the rear portion of the electronic display while a second locking mechanism may control access to the front portion of the electronic display. A first advertising party may be given proper access to the first and second locking mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Manufacturing Resources International, Inc.
    Inventors: Bill Swatt, William R. Dunn
  • Patent number: 7954265
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an advertising display, which is used in displaying advertising posters in an illuminated manner, said advertising display comprising a protecting body profile (1), a covering profile (2), a white background material (4) where such poster is attached, and a transparent protector (5) positioned on said poster; and furthermore, at least one a hinge profile that retains the transparent protector (5) in order to easily attach/replace such poster, and to prevent said transparent protector (5) from becoming damaged; at least one magnetic profile and at least one magnetic tape that fasten the moving edge of the transparent protector (5) to the body profile (1) after a poster is attached; and a multitude number of clips retaining the poster between the background (4) and transparent protector (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: M. T Reklam Ve Pazarlama Sanayi Ticaret Limited Sirketi
    Inventor: Ali Topcuoglu
  • 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: 7584561
    Abstract: A light box display for use in a retail environment includes a light box, a graphic, and a graphic cover. The light box includes a first member and a second member configured to collectively house a plurality of light sources. The graphic cover is selectively coupled to the light box with at least one of static build up and friction fit to secure the graphic between the light box and the graphic cover such that the graphic is configured to be backlit with light emanating from the plurality of light sources. The first member of the light box includes a first member side wall and the second member of the light box includes a second member side wall. The second member side wall generally fits around and overlaps a substantial entirety of the first member side wall. Associated methods are also disclosed and provide additional advantages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Whittier, Jeremy A. Clark, William Y. Stafford
  • Patent number: 7487610
    Abstract: A framing member for use in a bleed sign construction assembly, the construction assembly including a projecting mounting surface and at least one construction light fixture arrayed proximate to the projecting mounting surface which is encased within a light permeable covering material. A substantially elongate and joinable member includes a body with a selected width and height in cross section and a longitudinally extending channel which reveals an interior cavity of the body. A first flange extends longitudinally from along a first side of the body and secures to the mounting surface to arrange the body at a spaced distance therefrom. A second flange extends longitudinally from along a second and opposite side of the body terminates along a remote extending edge. A plurality of the framing members are connected in end to end fashion to form a closed perimeter and the covering material is anchored within the interconnected channels and drawn across the framing members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Milliken Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Les Milliken, K. Blair Milliken, Steven LaFountain
  • Patent number: 7448154
    Abstract: A sign system having components promoting ease of construction and readily accomplished changeout. Unique geometrically configured top and bottom support channels and other related components readily accommodate and capture the top and bottom edges of electronic display panels. Top and bottom shrouds attach automatically to the unique geometrically configured top and bottom support channels and include weatherstrip seals which automatically seal against the upper and lower regions of the electronic display panels. Other automatic seals are also incorporated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Kory D. Kludt
  • Publication number: 20080236005
    Abstract: An illuminated display device includes a cabinet containing at least one illumination lamp and at least first and second sides. Each of the sides includes a first door rotatably connected to the cabinet, and a second door rotatably connected to the cabinet and sharing a common rotation axis with the first door. The second door is positioned between the first door and the illumination lamp when both the first and second doors are oriented in a door closed position. A door frame of the second door has opposed frame members each including incrementally spaced slots positioned as opposed pairs of slots. The slots releasably receive divider members, proximate ones of the divider members being adapted to releasably retain a sign insert. The sign insert is illuminated by the lamp and is visible through the first door in the door closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: Igor Isayev, David U. Hillstrom
  • Patent number: 7412791
    Abstract: A menu panel for supporting elongated menu strips of varying heights is disclosed having adjustable guide rails supported by a frame. The frame includes vertical side frame members incorporating guide rail locating elements disposed along the length of the vertical side frame members to position the guide rails. The guide rails are selectively positionable along the length of the vertical side frame members to provide adjustable spacing between adjacent pairs of guide rails. The menu strips include descriptive indicia such as product names and pricing information and are disposed between and supported by adjacent pairs of the guide rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: LSI Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Bradley, Donald E. Lunnemann, Robert Uzzolino
  • Publication number: 20080141570
    Abstract: A thermoplastic elastomer protective louver covering for use with an electronic display module for the protection of persons coming into inadvertent contact with an electronic display module incorporating the thermoplastic elastomer protective louver covering and for protection of the electronic display module incorporating the thermoplastic elastomer protective louver covering. The resilient, flexible and energy absorbent thermoplastic elastomer protective louver covering is overmolded to the louvers of an electronic display module at a suitable protection thickness exceeding the depth of the exposed louver components to protectively cover up any sharp, pointed or other player-damaging shapes of the louver panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2006
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventors: Nathan Lane Nearman, Jay DeBlonk
  • Patent number: 7377061
    Abstract: A light box display for use in a retail environment including a light box, a graphic, and a graphic cover. The light box includes a base, a plurality of light sources secured within the base, and a light box cover. The light box cover includes an end wall, and the light box cover extends over the base to enclose the plurality of light sources between the base and the light box cover. The graphic extends over the end wall of the cover and is configured to be backlit by the plurality of light sources. The graphic cover extends over the graphic and the light box cover to secure the graphic to the light box. The graphic is viewable through the graphic cover. Retail displays and methods of presenting images to retail audiences provide additional advantages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Whittier, Jeremy A. Clark, William Y. Stafford
  • Patent number: 7325346
    Abstract: A merchandiser includes a front door or wall portion which forms a barrier between an exterior side and an interior side of the merchandiser. The front door or wall portion holds a first display panel in a relatively fixed manner so that an exterior side of the first display panel forms at least a portion of the exterior side of the merchandiser. The first display panel including portions that are clear, so as to allow a user of the merchandiser to see through the clear portion of the first display panel. A replaceable graphics display panel, which itself has replaceable graphics cards thereon, is placeable in juxtaposition with an interior facing side of the first display panel, so that the replaceable graphics cards thereon are aligned with the clear portions, so that the replaceable graphics cards are viewable from the exterior side of the merchandiser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventors: Munroe Chirnomas, Raymond B. Leski
  • Patent number: 7194832
    Abstract: A sign includes a housing, and at least one symbol plate that provides a visual representation of at least one symbol. A symbol plate attaches to the housing in at least two orientations relative to the housing. Optionally, a symbol plate has at least one cutout that provides the visual representation. Optionally, the housing includes a light source that emits light waves that pass through cutouts to illuminate visual representations. Optionally, a sign includes a sheet, disposable between the housing and a symbol plate, and adapted to filter at least one color from the light waves. The at least two orientations can include a first position, and a second position 90 degrees to the first position. Optionally, a sign includes a cover, or a cover and a deluxe plate, having at least one respective opening that exposes the visual representation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Inventor: Carlos Reinaldo Vazquez
  • Patent number: 7181875
    Abstract: A trim cap for a sign cabinet such as a channel letter includes an elongated formable band along with a pressure activated adhesive layer that is connected to the band. The adhesive layer is conformable to facilitate adherence of the trim cap to the edge of a sign face of the light cabinet. Preferably, the adhesive layer comprises a pressure activated adhesive and a foam layer that includes a plurality of polymeric microspheres.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Rodney R. Lewis
  • Patent number: 7174663
    Abstract: An improved outdoor illuminated display device. The device generally comprises a modular housing, a base member and a plurality of lights positioned in the housing—either horizontally or vertically. A plurality of display modules are positioned on the housing and backlit by the lights. A door member is pivotally connected along its upper edge to the housing covering the modules. A pair of gas-assisted spring members are provided between the door member and the housing. Air gaps or air vents are provided in order to allow air circulation in the housing. A second member above the door member is provided for holding and displaying posters and other advertising and promotional is materials. A plurality of clamping members hold the display materials in place. The second member can be illuminated or non-illuminated. Various modular units can be provided to increase the size and display space provided by the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: David U. Hillstrom
  • Patent number: 7144138
    Abstract: An extra high light density fluorescent luminaire having an upper portion and a lower portion one of, said portions having at least one advertising sign thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Peerless Electric Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Normand Dupuis, Joseph Aliberti
  • Patent number: 7080475
    Abstract: A merchandiser includes a front door or wall portion which forms a barrier between an exterior side and an interior side of the merchandiser. The front door or wall portion holds a first display panel in a relatively fixed manner so that an exterior side of the first display panel forms at least a portion of the exterior side of the merchandiser. An access port (such as a slot) is included in the front door or wall portion, and is dimensioned and oriented so as to allow a replaceable graphics display panel to be passed, for example, from the interior side to the exterior side of the merchandiser, so as to be placed in juxtaposition with an interior facing side of the first display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventors: Munroe Chirnomas, Raymond B. Leski
  • Patent number: 7000344
    Abstract: A sign display apparatus. The apparatus includes a moveable display face for displaying information; a stationary display body having a source of illumination for the display face when the display face is in a position over the display body; and a drive mechanism coupled to the display face for moving the display face relative to the stationary display body and its source of illumination. Also provided are an apparatus and a retrofit kit for lowering the display face to change a message displayed on the display face and for raising the display face to a visible position. Included are housing assemblies affixed in a spaced relationship, each housing assembly having a guide track such that, in combination, the housing assemblies provide a pair of substantially parallel guide tracks into which is disposed the display face, thereby defining a plane of travel as the display face is lowered and raised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventors: Christopher Furlan, John R. Protesto
  • Patent number: 6994448
    Abstract: A solar powered illuminated device is provided with a power module electrically connected to an illuminated module, the power module having a solar cell array electrically connected to a battery array having at least one rechargeable battery, the battery array being electrically connected to the illuminated module. The power module utilizes a power charging mode during generally daylight hours to charge the battery array with energy generated and provided by the solar cell array, and a photo switching device to switch from the power charging mode to a power source mode during generally non-daylight hours to enable the battery array to discharge current to the illuminated module to light up one or more housings in the illuminated module with a light source mounted in each housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventor: John H. Gorrell
  • Patent number: 6976330
    Abstract: A hinged sign face assembly is provided for use on a standard sign box. The assembly may be retrofitted on an existing sign box to facilitate access to fluorescent light tubes and other components inside the sign box. The assembly pivots the face of a sign box to an open position to allow interior components to be accessed without the need for disassembling the sign box frame. The assembly includes a hinge adapter that mounts to a standard sign box. The hinge adapter is operable with commercially available components to convert a rigid standard sign box to a hinged sign box. The assembly may also include a hinge connector secured with the sign face that may be connected to the adapter in a hinged manner without fasteners. The hinge connector supports the sign face and cooperates with the adapter to allow the sign face to pivot on the sign box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Milliken & Milliken
    Inventor: K. Blair Milliken
  • Patent number: 6843011
    Abstract: An improved outdoor illuminated display device. The device generally comprises a modular housing, a base member and a plurality of lights positioned in the housing—either horizontally or vertically. A plurality of display modules are positioned on the housing and backlit by the lights. A door member is pivotally connected along its upper edge to the housing covering the modules. A pair of gas-assisted spring members are provided between the door member and the housing. Air gaps or air vents are provided in order to allow air circulation in the housing. A second member above the door member is provided for holding and displaying posters and other advertising and promotional materials. A plurality of clamping members hold the display materials in place. The second member can be illuminated or non-illuminated. Various modular units can be provided to increase the size and display space provided by the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: David U. Hillstrom
  • Patent number: 6827472
    Abstract: Combination light fixture/HVAC duct/ad card holder for transit vehicle has roof mounted light fixture having a housing extending inboard to receive roof fasteners readily accessible through a cover strip. A single panel provides ad display serves as air duct with air vents and is supported by a detachable hinge at the light housing. In another embodiment the lamp housing is below the card panel. Combination outboard extrusions form a wiring trough and attachment for duct lower wall, and inboard extrusions form detachable hinge, supporting display panel and card holder. Upper bracket extrusion receives panel and card. Extrusions are attached to display panel by double-sided adhesive tape. Light fixture has ballast member accessible from inside lamp housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Herman Myburgh
  • Patent number: 6817738
    Abstract: A medical film illuminator includes a frame having a translucent panel. A film gripper is attached directly to the translucent panel and the translucent panel is attached to the frame using magnets that engage the frame. Thus, the translucent panel can be easily removed to service the interior of the frame. Moreover, the spacing between the gripper and panel is established during manufacture and does not change, thus ensuring that gripping tension on film that is slid between the gripper and panel remains constant during the life of the illuminator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Wolf X-Ray Corporation
    Inventors: William P. Winters, David Kaplan
  • Patent number: 6814467
    Abstract: A light box having a first frame and a second frame. The first and second frames each have many attaching rods. At least one removable fire retardant cover is connected to edges of the first and second frames. Many expanding rods are slidably connected to the expanding rods. Many light fixture attaching brackets are suitable for attaching to the second frame. The light fixture attaching brackets are adaptable to connect to a light bar having at least one light. The light bar is supported inside the second frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Inventor: Joshua Jenkins
  • Publication number: 20040139637
    Abstract: A modularized advertising light box includes a light guide with a reflecting pane, a light guiding pane, a diffusive pane, a shield frame put on a peripheral edge of the light guide, and at least two light tubes placed inside the shield frame. By assembling the light guide, the shield frame and the at least two light tubes constitute a backlight module inside an advertising case to allows for being conveniently assembled, replaced and delivered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventor: Hsiao-Ping Lee
  • Patent number: 6758002
    Abstract: A flexible face material sign framing system allows the interior portion of the sign casing to be accessed without removing the face material from the framing. The system includes a device for grasping the flexible face material and exerting tension to its edges in order to tighten the front of the sign appropriately. The system and device are weatherproof and therefore prolong the life of the face material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Enseignes “Imperial” Signs Ltee/Ltd.
    Inventor: Eloi Duguay
  • Patent number: 6736530
    Abstract: An image display device may take the form of an illuminating picture lamp providing means by which images may be illuminated by a light source on a selectable and removably attachable basis. Using a base layer of translucent material preferably circumscribed by a transparent material, an image may be slipped between the two layers and illuminated by a light source. The sheets are used to form a lampshade and are held in place about a light source, such as a light bulb, by supports threadably engaging a mounting base. The mounting base attaches to the lamp generally below the light bulb to provide stable support for the lampshade. The image display device of the present invention provides attractive and selectable means by which images may be illuminated by a light source and articles, such as lamp shades, may be decorated on a personalized basis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Alex J. Thevenot
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20040045200
    Abstract: An improved outdoor illuminated display device. The device generally comprises a modular housing, a base member and a plurality of lights positioned in the housing—either horizontally or vertically. A plurality of display modules are positioned on the housing and backlit by the lights. A door member is pivotally connected along its upper edge to the housing covering the modules. A pair of gas-assisted spring members are provided between the door member and the housing. Air gaps or air vents are provided in order to allow air circulation in the housing. A second member above the door member is provided for holding and displaying posters and other advertising and promotional materials. A plurality of clamping members hold the display materials in place. The second member can be illuminated or non-illuminated. Various modular units can be provided to increase the size and display space provided by the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: David U. Hillstrom
  • Publication number: 20040035032
    Abstract: A hinged sign face assembly is provided for use on a standard sign box. The assembly may be retrofitted on an existing sign box to facilitate access to fluorescent light tubes and other components inside the sign box. The assembly pivots the face of a sign box to an open position to allow interior components to be accessed without the need for disassembling the sign box frame. The assembly includes a hinge adapter that mounts to a standard sign box. The hinge adapter is operable with commercially available components to convert a rigid standard sign box to a hinged sign box. The assembly may also include a hinge connector secured with the sign face that may be connected to the adapter in a hinged manner without fasteners. The hinge connector supports the sign face and cooperates with the adapter to allow the sign face to pivot on the sign box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventor: K. Blair Milliken
  • Patent number: 6681509
    Abstract: An artistic display (10) provides backlighting to display graphics that may include one or more paintings, each with paint on one or both sides. The display graphics (100) comprise an outer canvas element (110), and optionally, an inner canvas element (120). Both sides of each canvas element may by covered, all or in part, with a coating of paint in a plurality of colors and thicknesses. A picture frame (280) is supported by a front peripheral surface of the backlighting box frame, and a rear peripheral surface of the frame supports a back wall. A light reflective surface (260) may be carried by the back wall. A lighting assembly (300) is located directly behind the outer canvas element, and is supported by a backlighting box frame (200). Where an inner canvas element is present, a rear lighting assembly is carried immediately behind this element. An automatic switching assembly (500) is in electrical communication with a power source, and automatically cycles power on and off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: France Jean
  • Patent number: 6658774
    Abstract: An illuminated identification system for providing efficient identification of a building structure in various light conditions. The illuminated identification system includes a housing unit, one or more light bulbs positioned within the housing unit, an identifying plate containing an indicia, a transparent cover plate, and a photocell switch unit electrically connected to the light bulbs. The light bulbs illuminate the interior of the housing unit when the photocell switch unit detects reduced outdoor lighting. The indicia may be formed within the identifying plate by coloring or by cutting out one or more slots forming the indicia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventors: Keith F. Munter, Matthew L. Kempers, Earl F. Munter
  • Patent number: 6631576
    Abstract: An improved outdoor illuminated display device. The device generally comprises a modular housing, a base member and a plurality of lights positioned in the housing—either horizontally or vertically. A plurality of display modules are positioned on the housing and backlit by the lights. A door member is pivotally connected along its upper edge to the housing covering the modules. A pair of gas-assisted spring members are provided between the door member and the housing. Air gaps or air vents are provided in order to allow air circulation in the housing. A second member above the door member is provided for holding and displaying posters and other advertising and promotional materials. A plurality of clamping members hold the display materials in place. The second member can be illuminated or non-illuminated. Various modular units can be provided to increase the size and display space provided by the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: David U. Hillstrom
  • Publication number: 20030182833
    Abstract: A trim cap for a sign cabinet such as a channel letter includes an elongated formable band along with a pressure activated adhesive layer that is connected to the band. The adhesive layer is conformable to facilitate adherence of the trim cap to the edge of a sign face of the light cabinet. Preferably, the adhesive layer comprises a pressure activated adhesive and a foam layer that includes a plurality of polymeric microspheres.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Rodney R. Lewis
  • Publication number: 20030140536
    Abstract: An illumination device for a variety of commercial purposes that displays a message, logo or advertisement. The illumination device preferably includes a housing having a front component includes a transparent portion, a panel, a sealing means, and an outer edge, a back component which is removably connected to the front component, a connector, a light source, and a power source such a solar power assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: David R. Bilyeu
  • Patent number: 6557284
    Abstract: A backlit display apparatus mounts to an exterior surface, including an automobile, wherein plain paper designs, digital photographs on plain paper or transparencies may be displayed between a white translucent dispersing panel and a clear front panel, with the front panel and the dispersing panel having a weather-proof seal. A high lumen light source, which could consist of a single bulb or a plurality of low lumen light sources, is located behind the dispersing panel, powered by either an internal DC electrical power source, an external DC electrical power source or an external 110 volt AC power source, the high lumen light source having a variable illumination control mechanism to select from a constant illumination, a flashing illumination or a passive illumination, such passive illumination derived from the external power source, including the brake light electrical system or the running light electrical system of an automobile to which the apparatus may be attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Inventor: Steven T. Nolan
  • Publication number: 20030037472
    Abstract: The invention is a backlit display apparatus, mountable to an exterior surface, including an automobile, wherein plain paper designs, digital photographs on plain paper or transparencies may be displayed between a white translucent dispersing panel and a clear front panel, with the front panel and the dispersing panel having a weather-proof seal. A high lumen light source, which could consist of a single bulb or a plurality of low lumen light sources, is located behind the dispersing panel, powered by either an internal DC electrical power source, an external DC electrical power source or an external 110 volt AC power source, the high lumen light source having a variable illumination control mechanism to select from a constant illumination, a flashing illumination or a passive illumination, such passive illumination derived from the external power source, including the brake light electrical system or the running light electrical system of an automobile to which the apparatus may be attached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2001
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: Steven T. Nolan
  • Publication number: 20020166272
    Abstract: An illuminated address display comprising (1) a housing having the following surfaces, a top, a slanted back, a front with a beveled rectangular opening, a transparent front panel, a removable top, a right, and a left side, also a bottom (2) an interior partition to divide viewing area and wiring section, (3) a pair of slots, of which are attached to the left side interior surface, and left side of interior partition surface with a slot across the bottom interior which joins said slots behind front interior surface, and complementarity aligned so that the slots are parallel to each other, (4) a transparent front panel having two side edges and bottom each of which slides into the first set of slots, and rests in the bottom slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventor: Robert Earl Gaymon
  • 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: 20010032404
    Abstract: An improved outdoor illuminated display device. The device generally comprises a modular housing, a base member and a plurality of lights positioned in the housing—either horizontally or vertically. A plurality of display modules are positioned on the housing and backlit by the lights. A door member is pivotally connected along its upper edge to the housing covering the modules. A pair of gas-assisted spring members are provided between the door member and the housing. Air gaps or air vents are provided in order to allow air circulation in the housing. A second member above the door member is provided for holding and displaying posters and other advertising and promotional materials. A plurality of clamping members hold the display materials in place. The second member can be illuminated or non-illuminated. Various modular units can be provided to increase the size and display space provided by the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Applicant: Marketing Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: David U. Hillstrom
  • Patent number: 6298589
    Abstract: An improved outdoor illuminated display device. The device generally comprises a modular housing, a base member and a plurality of lights positioned in the housing—either horizontally or vertically. A plurality of display modules are positioned on the housing and backlit by the lights. A door member is pivotally connected along its upper edge to the housing covering the modules. A pair of gas-assisted spring members are provided between the door member and the housing. Air gaps or air vents are provided in order to allow air circulation in the housing. A second member above the door member is provided for holding and displaying posters and other advertising and promotional materials. A plurality of clamping members hold the display materials in place. The second member can be illuminated or non-illuminated. Various modular units can be provided to increase the size and display space provided by the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: David U. Hillstrom
  • Patent number: 6282825
    Abstract: An adjustable display panel having one or more individual sign elements slidably mounted between partitioning elements attached laterally to the frame. In one embodiment, a plurality of partitioning elements are magnetically attached to the frame using a series of apertures in the frame. The partitioning elements each include a sliding track or groove for slidably receiving one edge of the sign elements therein. A removable stop element is provided on at least one side of the frame to permit easy access to the sign elements in order to facilitate modification or replacement thereof. The sign elements of the present invention further comprise a front and rear portion, these portions being separable from one another. The front portion of the sign element, which contains graphic images or writing, may be separated from the rear portion and replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventors: Don Godfrey, Amal Godfrey
  • Patent number: 6154994
    Abstract: A portable lightweight illuminated sign assembly for either carrying on one's person or placing on a window for advertisement and the like. The plastic housing is rectangular in shape to support a rectangular transparent plastic face plate which carries a message illuminated by at least one fluorescent light source and energized by either a D.C. source when portable and by either D.C. or A.C. current when affixed to a window. Suction cups attachable to loops or hooks are provided on the housing adjacent to the face plate for affixing to a window. A hook element positioned on the housing on both sides and centered between the attachment loops or hooks enables the use of body straps for supporting the portable sign assembly on one's torso.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventors: Eric G. O'Brien, Kris D. Hanon, Kenneth D. Neal