Billboard Type Patents (Class 40/624)
  • Patent number: 11769759
    Abstract: A mounting device for mounting one or more illumination devices and wiring harnesses on a mounting surface. A substantially flat platform includes a front side, a rear side, and three or more peripheral edges. The platform has a plurality of apertures therethrough for mounting the illumination devices thereto with mechanical fasteners. Two or more standoffs are each formed preferably at the peripheral edges of the platform, forming a gap between the mounting surface and the rear side of each illumination device to direct heat upwardly away from the illumination devices. As such, the illumination devices are mounted to the platform with mechanical fasteners, the wiring harnesses are used to connect each illumination device to at least one other illumination device and/or the power source, and the platform is mounted to the mounting surface with screw fasteners at each standoff.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Inventor: Bejan E. Amini
  • Patent number: 11435976
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods and systems for displaying media data, host computers, devices, and media. A method of triggering electronic signage to display media data, which is executable at a wireless access device, includes: receiving, from a host computer, media data carrying a signage identifier for uniquely identifying the electronic signage; and sending the media data to the electronic signage to which the signage identifier belongs, to trigger the electronic signage to display the media data. A method of triggering electronic signage to display media data, which is executable at a host computer, includes: sending media data carrying a signage identifier for uniquely identifying the electronic signage to a wireless access device, to trigger the electronic signage to display the media data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignees: K-Tronics (Suzhou) Technology Co., Ltd., BOE Technology Group Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fujun Chen, Qigui Rong
  • Patent number: 11403664
    Abstract: A method, computer system, and computer program product for billboard aesthetics and safety rating generator are provided. The embodiment may include receiving, by a processor, a plurality of information related to a billboard. The embodiment may also include extracting specific billboard information from the received data. The embodiment may further include generating ratings on safety, aesthetics and legal conformance levels of the extracted billboard information. The embodiment may also include generating a 3D model of the billboard that incorporates updates based on the generated ratings. The embodiment may further include generating improvement recommendations designed to increase the generated ratings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2022
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Vinod Bijlani, Manna Sui
  • Patent number: 11380227
    Abstract: A truss system configured as a rectangular frame and a rigging plate is provided. The rectangular frame comprises an interconnected assembly of rectangular tubes. The rigging plate is removably attached to a top surface of the rectangular frame and includes an overhanging portion that overhangs a front side of the rectangular frame. The overhanging portion includes a plurality of attachment apparatuses for suspending at least one video display from the overhanging portion such that the video display(s) overhangs the front side of the rectangular frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: CHRISTIE DIGITAL SYSTEMS USA, INC.
    Inventors: Brett Alan Thierbach, Charles Thomas Laszyca
  • Patent number: 11094231
    Abstract: A metal poster is formed with an integral frame which is relief printed on the obverse face of a sheet metal plate with layers of UV curable inks. Image indicia imprinted on the plate is surrounded by the relief printed frame. The ink layers extend into selvage areas of the plate. The selvage areas are folded over to the rear face of the sheet metal plate to provide the frame with relief printed rounded peripheral edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Inventors: Edward Lech Ruszczyc, Piotr Kulaga
  • Patent number: 10588224
    Abstract: A fluid draining structure adapted for a border having a first surface includes a plurality of draining ribs spaced at intervals on the border. Each of the plurality of draining ribs includes a first draining segment located above the first surface and spaced from the first surface at a first distance. The first surface and a side of the first draining segment adjacent to the first surface are inclined downwardly relative to a horizontal direction, and a droplet is drawn to the corresponding draining rib and drained along the corresponding draining rib after the droplet falls on the first surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Assignee: Winston Corporation
    Inventors: Chia-Chang Hou, Po-Liang Huang
  • Patent number: 10528956
    Abstract: The provision of advertising material on ground surfaces is provided. In some embodiments, the advertising material is a thin, nonslip material affixed to a roadway surface. In some embodiments rights relating to the roadway surface are obtained, advertisement material is placed thereon, and revenue is received for having the advertisement material on the roadway. In some embodiments, the revenue is shared with governmental entities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Inventors: Duce Vines, Alton Woods
  • Patent number: 10174878
    Abstract: An aerial advertising display apparatus includes a support base for placing on a support surface, a lift mechanism mounted on the support base and being actuatable to change the elevation of an upper end of the lift mechanism above the support surface, and an attachment mechanism supported by the upper end portion of the lift mechanism. The attachment mechanism includes a rearward component attached to the upper end portion of the lift mechanism and a forward component attached to an advertising display mounting frame. The rearward and forward components are linkable to couple and decouple with and from one another so as to correspondingly attach and detach the advertising display mounting frame to and from the upper end portion of the lift mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Inventor: Bennett Russell Kaytes
  • Patent number: 9615664
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention disclose a mounting structure for display device. The mounting structure comprises at least two mounting assemblies, and each mounting assembly comprises: a first component mounted securely to the display device; a second component mounted to a beam; and a first screw rod mounted horizontally to the first component, the first screw rod being configured to be rotatable but non-displaceable relative to the first component. The second component is configured to be mounted to the first screw rod in a non-rotatable manner. Embodiments of the present invention further disclose a wall-mounted display device comprising a display device and the mounting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: BOE Technology Group Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhihui Sun, Zhiguo Shen
  • Patent number: 9235996
    Abstract: An article (101) is provided which includes a plurality of panels (103), wherein each panel comprises a first edge having a first longitudinally extending protrusion (107) adjacent thereto and a second edge having a second longitudinally extending protrusion (109) adjacent thereto, wherein each of the first and second protrusions has a planar exterior surface (131) and an interior surface (133) having an indentation (135) therein, and wherein the plurality of panels are arranged in an abutting manner such that the planar exterior surface of at least one first protrusion and at least one second protrusion are disposed in an opposing relation to each other. A coupler (113) is also provided which extends over said first and second protrusions. The coupler is equipped with at least a first protuberance (145) which engages the indentation on the interior surface of the first protrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: Image Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventor: Alex Abadi
  • Patent number: 9200654
    Abstract: A mounting bracket assembly for supporting a traffic control device on a mast arm or pole. The bracket includes a first clamp adapted to removably attach to the mast arm or pole or other elongate support, and is designed to be positioned vertically or horizontally. A second clamp is removably attachable to pole or other elongate support member supporting the traffic control device. The second clamp includes inner and outer clamp members. The inner member has a pair of arcuate slots that are alignable with either of two pairs of bolt holes in the first clamp. Thus, the arcuate slots in the inner clamp member and the first and second pairs of bolt holes in the first clamp permit rotation of the inner clamp member 360 degrees relative to the first clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: PELCO PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: A. Philip Parduhn
  • Patent number: 9047791
    Abstract: A modification kit for converting an existing signage mounting structure to an electronic sign generally includes a plurality of display modules; a plurality of sign sections each having a front-facing portion and a rear-facing portion, the front facing portion defining a two dimensional array of bays arranged in a plurality of rows along a vertical direction and a plurality of columns along a horizontal direction, each bay configured to receive one of the display modules, the rear-facing portion for mounting to a surface of the existing signage mounting structure; and a plurality of power routing systems, each power routing system having a power input for coupling to a power source and a plurality of power extensions, each power extension for coupling the power source to one of the plurality of display modules. The modification kit when installed provides the electronic sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Assignee: ADTI MEDIA, LLC.
    Inventors: David Franklin Cox, Richard J. Romano, Arne E. Carlson
  • Patent number: 8929083
    Abstract: Supports for plural billboard display modules include one or more structural frames mountable to existing billboard poster panels and other planar structural surfaces; each individual structural frame having a sufficient number of frame cutout areas to minimize frame weight to no greater than fifty pounds for hand lifting and mounting to the poster panels, but not such a sufficient number of frame cutout areas to compromise the structural integrity of the structural frame for resisting wind load forces in excess of 100 pounds per square foot when mounted to the poster panels while supporting the plural billboard display modules; and wherein each structural frame is arranged in an array of structural bay members defined by the cutout areas and visual separation features, the visual separation features facilitating the separating of the array into smaller array configurations, wherein the smallest array is a one bay high by one bay wide configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventors: David Franklin Cox, Arne E. Carlson
  • Patent number: 8912898
    Abstract: In one general aspect, a request to determine a status of a first of a plurality of advertising devices is received. The advertising devices are spatially separated. Operating conditions of the first advertising device are identified. The status of the first advertising device is determined based, at least in part, on the operating conditions. A presentation including information indicating the status of the first advertising device is transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Lites Out, LLC
    Inventors: Brent D. Arnold, Brian K. Reinle, Scott H. Galaise
  • Patent number: 8870410
    Abstract: An optics panel for use in a light emitting diode (LED) lighting is disclosed. A plurality of LEDs is disposed on a substrate and directed outward therefrom. A substantially transparent substrate is disposed over the plurality of LEDs and configured to direct light from each of the plurality of LEDs of the lighting assembly onto a surface having a predetermined bounded area. Light from each of the LEDs is directed by the transparent substrate across the entire area of the surface so that each LED illuminates substantially the entire surface with a substantially equal level of illumination per LED.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Ultravision Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: David Siucheong Auyeung
  • Patent number: 8844179
    Abstract: A backlight section is adapted for use in connection with a large format graphic illumination system. The backlight sheet has one or more electroluminescent panels attached to it. This backlight sheet will be mounted onto a display surface. The graphic sheet is then mounted over the assembled backlight sheet having the electroluminescent panels thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Electro-LuminX Lighting Corporation
    Inventor: Steven Paul Pendlebury
  • Patent number: 8824124
    Abstract: A large format billboard type electronic sign includes at least one structural frame member mounted to a front side of a planar mounting structure that defines a plurality of structural bay members configured for receiving and removably supporting therein a corresponding plurality of weatherized display modules to conceal and protect at least one preformed wiring harness from wind load forces in excess of 100 pounds per square foot and degradation from the effects of ultra-violet sunlight; each individual one of said plurality of structural bay members is provided with a plurality of receptacles to facilitate mechanically and electrically coupling the at least one preformed wiring harness to the plurality of weatherized display modules; and wherein the at least one preformed wiring harness is provided with a plurality of preformed nodes which are dimensioned to be snapped or pressed into position in a wire harness node receptacle forming part of the plurality of receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: ADTI Media, LLC
    Inventors: Arne E. Carlson, David Franklin Cox
  • Patent number: 8824125
    Abstract: An out of the box signage kit facilitates in field conversion of a static billboard having an anchored planar mounting structure into a large format billboard type electronic sign that includes a plurality of interchangeable weatherized display modules; a plurality of hand mountable interchangeable structural frames for supporting the plurality of weatherized display modules, each structural frame having a back portion for mounting to a frontside of the anchored planar mounting structure and a front portion defining a plurality of bay members for receiving corresponding ones of said plurality of weatherized display modules; and a plurality of interchangeable wire harnesses, each individual wire harness including a first end for coupling to a power source mounted on a backside of the anchored planar mounting structure, each individual wire harness having a plurality of power extensions for coupling the power source to at least one of the display modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Adti Media, LLC
    Inventors: David Franklin Cox, Arne E. Carlso, James Warren Frederick, Richard J. Romano
  • Patent number: 8191296
    Abstract: An elevating billboard and control method thereof, which includes a hollow column, a billboard stent, and a windlass controlling a motor, forward relay and back relay, wherein a hollow cylinder is fixed with the billboard stent and rings the column so as to slide along the column up and down, a fixed pulley disposed on the top of the column, a free end of a guy cable of the windlass connecting with the hollow cylinder by the fixed pulley. By using the motor of the windlass and the fixed pulleys, the elevating billboard is easy to assemble, disassemble or maintain, and is capable of completing the up and down movement easily and quickly. And using the real-time monitor of the anemoscope, the elevating billboard completes the up and down movement easily and quickly by wind scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: Peiyuan Xu
  • Publication number: 20120113254
    Abstract: Street-level advertising billboards may offer advertisers an additional method to reach consumers, either while they are driving or walking through city streets. The billboards may be located on stoplights, walk/don't walk signs, or the like. The billboards may include an electronic display panel for displaying an advertisement, a network interface for wirelessly sending collected data to and receiving advertisement display data from the advertisement system, and a sensor for collecting external data. The billboards may include one or more additional sensors for sensing security threats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventor: Arnaldo Zael Cruz
  • Patent number: 8156672
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an stormproof billboard and control method thereof, which includes a column, a billboard stent, a rotating element, a motor, an electromagnetic brake, an anemoscope, a trigger switch, and an electric control assembly, wherein the control element respectively connects with the electromagnetic brake, the motor and the trigger switch, the electric control assembly controls the work of the motor and the electromagnetic brake by the wind speed signal measured by the anemoscope and the signal of the trigger switch. By using above structure, the invention can change the windward section of the stormproof billboard by the wind speed and the wind direction, such that effectively reduces the wind load, makes the stormproof billboard more secure in use. The invention is easy to control and secure to use, makes the advertisement have a good effect, it is worth to use the stormproof billboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Inventor: Peiyuan Xu
  • Patent number: 8051591
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a guide and tensioning system for a billboard, comprising a facing area surrounded by trim pieces. The trim pieces each comprise a back plate, a side plate and a front plate. Guide groups may be located at various locations along the outside edge of the back plate. The guide groups may comprise an arced guide located between two tab guides or a keeper tab may be centered over the arced guide. The guide group may also comprise a clip that selectively secures to the arced guide. The clip has a complimentary shape to the arced guide and to a gap in the back plate. Hook-like structures on the clip selectively engage with the end edge portions of the arced guide. When engaged with the arced guide, the clip preferably prevents a cable member from falling behind the back plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Tiffin Metal Products Co.
    Inventors: Thomas P. Troiano, Shawn P. Fitch
  • Publication number: 20110247251
    Abstract: A billboard having a self-supporting, non-combustible panel which has a base layer for printing inks that cure under ultraviolet light. In order to obtain noncombustible billboards, it is proposed that the panel be produced from fibre cement and provided with a directly applied acrylate coating, optionally containing colour pigments, as base layer for acrylic-based printing inks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventors: Ludwig Morasch, Otmar Ohlinger
  • Publication number: 20110225860
    Abstract: A billboard system has a framework supporting at least one panel. A lower rail is fixed to the framework and has at least one downwardly opening channel. An upper rail is movable with respect to the framework. The upper rail has at least one upwardly opening channel. A billboard copy at least partially covers the at least one panel. Rods may be selectively located in the copy. Steps for tensioning the copy are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas P. Troiano, Zeile Klaiss
  • Publication number: 20110215199
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a system that provides a cohesive, harmonized look to aircraft galleys and other aircraft areas. The system allows airlines to easily change the decorative front fascia of galley (and other) airline components, even while the components are installed on the aircraft. The replacement is accomplished without the use of tools or extensive manual effort by providing replaceable and interchangeable panels for use on aircraft or other passenger transport vehicles or vessels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: MAG Aerospace Industries, Inc. d/b/a Monogram Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas M. Lee
  • Publication number: 20110173853
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an improved billboard system and method of use thereof. One or more vertical axis wind turbines (VAWT) are mounted onto the top portions of posts supporting new or previously constructed billboards. The vertical axis wind turbines, which are configured to rotate regardless of the direction of the wind, generate electrical power that is used to provide the power needs of lighting display elements (lights, screens, etc.) found on the billboard. The turbines are also used to charge batteries that may later be used to supply power to the billboard during periods when the turbines do not generate sufficient power or when one or more of the turbines are not operational. Surplus power not used to power the display elements or charge the batteries may be transmitted to the utility power grid. The billboard system may be monitored and controlled from a remote location via a communications network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventor: Christophe Leveque
  • Patent number: 7950174
    Abstract: A windproof billboard, including at least a body, a pair of first supports, multiple second supports, a rotating shaft, multiple linkage mechanisms, a transmission mechanism, a power mechanism, and at least one brake, wherein the first supports and the second supports are disposed on the ground, the bottom of the body is hinge connected to the first supports, the linkage mechanisms are hinge connected an upper part of the back of the body and fixed on the rotating shaft, and operate to drive the body to rotate with respect to the first supports, the rotating shaft abuts against one of the second supports, the power mechanism is fixed on the transmission mechanism and operates to drive the rotating shaft to rotate via the transmission mechanism, and the brake is disposed on one of the second supports and operates to fix the rotating shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Peiyuan Xu
  • Publication number: 20100248851
    Abstract: One embodiment of the invention discloses a method for animating an advertising device. The method comprising multiple steps such as providing a track system and a tower that is operatively coupled to the track. The tower can comprise one or more substantially transparent sections. The method further comprises providing a base support system that is operatively coupled to the tower. The base can be operatively coupled to a facade with one or more substantially non-transparent sections. The method further includes providing a vehicle system comprising a passenger-carrying vehicle that is operatively coupled to the track. Finally, the method includes animating the advertising device by transporting the vehicle between the substantially transparent section of the tower and the substantially non-transparent section of the facade. The vehicle movement can, for example, simulate fluid movement between the tower and the facade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventors: Daniel P. Davison, JR., Richard H. Remmer
  • Patent number: 7779568
    Abstract: An adaptable mounting system for mounting an LED display panel on an existing support structure for a billboard is provided, where the support structure including a plurality of posts having brackets arranged to support the billboard. The adaptable mounting system includes a lower arm and upper arms, each arm having a first end and a second end and one or more notches supported on the brackets of the existing support structure; a yoke coupled to the arms proximate the first end and configured for attachment to the LED display panel; and a brace coupled to one of the upper arms proximate the second end and coupled to the yoke of an arm beneath the one of the upper arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Adaptive Micro Systems LLC
    Inventors: Lee A. Gettelfinger, Gregory P. Schleusner, Kelly J. Bronk
  • Publication number: 20100199535
    Abstract: A bulletin for use on a mounting structure. The bulletin includes a sheet having a front surface for receiving an image and a rear surface and an outer periphery for extending around the outer surface. A strengthening strip is secured to one of the front surface and the rear surface along at least a portion of the outer periphery for inhibiting damage to the outer periphery when extending around the outer surface of the mounting structure. A billboard assembly, a method of forming a bulletin, and method of mounting a bulletin on a billboard structure are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: Circle Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin Michael REYNOLDS
  • Patent number: 7770314
    Abstract: An outdoor advertising system to support and selectively display an inside panel assembly or an outside panel assembly comprising a substantially rectangular outer frame having a plurality of interior support members attached thereto, a plurality of stringer coupling assemblies to couple a plurality of stringer members to the plurality of interior support members and a plurality of adjustable attachment panel assemblies to attach the inside panel assembly and the outside panel assembly to the substantially rectangular outer frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Irvin Steel, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Dean
  • Publication number: 20100170124
    Abstract: Present invention relates generally to an advertisement on the roadway. In particular, it relates to an advertisement device located with the municipal street sign, positioned directly on the municipal street sign, in close proximity to a municipal street sign, or adjacent to a municipal street sign. Whenever street sign appears on the street, such as on a municipal light posts, on the cross streets, or a street sign on the municipal or privately owned building. The invention allows a vehicle driver to see the advertising simultaneously with the road sign without taking their attention off the road.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2008
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventor: Vladimir Chiltsov
  • Patent number: 7716861
    Abstract: An outdoor display sign has a display enclosure. The display enclosure has a number shades that reduce the solar loading on the display enclosure. The outdoor display sign has shades covering the top, back, sides and parts of the front of the sign. The shades are offset from the display enclosure to allow natural airflow between the shade and the display enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Skyline Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Charles Stadjuhar, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100018097
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an elevating billboard and control method thereof, which includes a hollow column, a billboard stent, and a windlass controlling a motor, forward relay and back relay, wherein a hollow cylinder is fixed with the billboard stent and rings the column so as to slide along the column up and down, a fixed pulley disposed on the top of the column, a free end of a guy cable of the windlass connecting with the hollow cylinder by the fixed pulley. By using the motor of the windlass and the fixed pulleys, the invention is easy to assemble, disassemble or maintain, and is capable of completing the up and down movement easily and quickly. And using the real-time monitor of the anemoscope, the invention completes the up and down movement easily and quickly by wind scale.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Peiyuan Xu
  • Publication number: 20100018098
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an stormproof billboard and control method thereof, which includes a column, a billboard stent, a rotating element, a motor, an electromagnetic brake, an anemoscope, a trigger switch, and an electric control assembly, wherein the control element respectively connects with the electromagnetic brake, the motor and the trigger switch, the electric control assembly controls the work of the motor and the electromagnetic brake by the wind speed signal measured by the anemoscope and the signal of the trigger switch. By using above structure, the invention can change the windward section of the stormproof billboard by the wind speed and the wind direction, such that effectively reduces the wind load, makes the stormproof billboard more secure in use. The invention is easy to control and secure to use, makes the advertisement have a good effect, it is worth to use the stormproof billboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Peiyuan Xu
  • Publication number: 20100014648
    Abstract: A method and system for connecting an audio message containing advertising information to a visual display advertisement is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas S. Baglio, Amy L. Hiltabidel
  • Patent number: 7515136
    Abstract: A method of collaborative interactions with billboards includes receiving a request, by a billboard network manager, from an advertisement company to display synchronized interactive advertisements and video games on billboards in an area, inviting users in the area to participate in the advertisements and video games through the billboards and mobile devices of the users via a network, checking registration of the users to participate in the collaborative interactions with billboards, and checking a volume of the users in the area for appropriate synchronized advertisements and video games. If the volume of users is appropriate for synchronized advertisements and video games, then the billboard network manager displays the synchronized advertisements and video games, and continues to track the volume of the users in the area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Dimitri Kanevsky, Bhuvana Ramabhadran, Roberto Sicconi, Mahesh Viswanathan
  • Patent number: 7490426
    Abstract: A display that that includes a base member and an inflatable frame coupled to the base member. The base member includes a plurality of sections that are moveable relative to one another between a stowed position and a deployed position. In the stowed position, the plurality of sections define a case for storing the inflatable frame in its collapsed state. In the deployed position, the plurality of sections define a base for the display system in the deployed position with the inflatable frame extending from the base to provide a display area of the display system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Inventor: Eugene Scarberry
  • Patent number: 7481013
    Abstract: A billboard sign includes abutting rectangular tubular sections forming a frame using a rectangular tube extending across abutting ends within the tubular sections. The rectangular tube is biased against adjacent inside wall surfaces of the tubular sections for securing and aligning the tubular sections to each other. Risers extend between opposing horizontal frame sections and define a flat riser plane. Stringers are attached to support posts and define a vertically oriented plane. With risers defining the flat riser plane, the stringers horizontally attached to support posts and aligned for defining a vertically oriented plane, the flat riser plane can be aligned with the vertically oriented plane for securing the frame to the support posts in a flat plane of the frame vertically oriented as desired, regardless of the orientation of the support posts. A flexible substrate may be extended across a periphery of the frame with a message carrying surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventor: John L. Black
  • Patent number: 7466241
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for determining a refresh rate of a dynamic billboard. A method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes: obtaining traffic flow information; and determining the refresh rate of the dynamic billboard based on the traffic flow information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Ruthie D. Lyle, Xiaohu S. Yao
  • Publication number: 20080216371
    Abstract: A sign system for roads includes a back sign. The back sigh has a mount affixed to the ground that is adjacent to a road. A back sign device is affixed to the mount. The mount has a front face that is visible to oncoming traffic. The back sign device is located on a rear face visible to traffic that has passed the back sign, wherein a driver may observe the back sign device in a mirror mounted upon their vehicle after passing the back sign device and the back sign provides information to the driver. The sign system for roads may further include a broadcasting unit. The broadcasting unit may be in communication with a receiving unit being positioned in a vehicle and is adapted to communicate with the driver. When the driver of said vehicle approaches the back sign, the receiving unit can alert the driver of additional information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventors: Harry A. Beale, Joshua T. Andrew Beale, Sonia L. Berry, Stephen D. Berry, James M. Beale
  • Publication number: 20080155869
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Applicant: Safe Lites, LLC
    Inventors: Aaron J. Golle, John T. Golle
  • Publication number: 20080120880
    Abstract: An outdoor display sign has a display enclosure. The display enclosure has a number shades that reduce the solar loading on the display enclosure. The outdoor display sign has shades covering the top, back, sides and parts of the front of the sign. The shades are offset from the display enclosure to allow natural airflow between the shade and the display enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Charles Stadjuhar
  • Publication number: 20080047184
    Abstract: An outdoor advertising system to support and selectively display an inside panel assembly or an outside panel assembly comprising a substantially rectangular outer frame having a plurality of interior support members attached thereto, a plurality of stringer coupling assemblies to couple a plurality of stringer members to the plurality of interior support members and a plurality of adjustable attachment panel assemblies to attach the inside panel assembly and the outside panel assembly to the substantially rectangular outer frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Inventor: Eric Dean
  • Publication number: 20070199216
    Abstract: A sign (10) includes a gear subassembly (50, 52) and a slip assembly (74, 80) operatively associated between the drive shaft (42) and the output shaft (46) of one of the display elements (14). During a portion of a rotation of the input gear element (50), the input gear teeth (72) engage the output gear teeth (78). During another portion, the input gear teeth (72) disengage. At least one partial gear tooth (82a, 82b) assists in periodically aligning the gear teeth. The slip subassembly comprises: an input slip element (74) defining a generally arcuate line about the axis of the input slip element; and an output slip element (80) defining a generally straight line that is non-intersecting with and extends perpendicular to the input slip axis. During a portion of a rotation of the input slip element (74), the arcuate line and the straight line of the slip elements (74, 80) are in slipping contact to prevent the output slip element (80) from rotating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventor: Michael R. Atkinson
  • Patent number: 7240445
    Abstract: A display apparatus having a base portion and a display support portion extending vertically from the base portion. At least one display feature bearing at least one graphic presentation is connected to the display apparatus. More specifically, the display apparatus includes elongate pontoons, a plurality of column members extending from each of the pontoons, an elongate transverse member with each of the column members connecting thereto, and a plurality of cross-members extending between the pontoons. The pontoons, the column members, the transverse member and the cross-members each comprise an independently inflatable compartment. The display apparatus further comprises a ballast system including elongate ballasts mounted to the pontoons, and display features removably affixed to the column members which extend between the transverse member and the pontoons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: William Richard Barlow
  • Patent number: 7155848
    Abstract: A scrolling sign apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a web having a number of signs connected in a loop. The web includes a bead along each longitudinal edge thereof. The apparatus includes a housing which has a window for displaying the signs. The web is wound on a number of rollers located in the housing which advance the web through the window. Each roller has two circumferential grooves located near the ends of the roller. The grooves engage the beads along the edges of the web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: 501413 Ontario Limited
    Inventors: Bill David O'Malley, Abram Teichroeb Klassen
  • Patent number: 7093723
    Abstract: A display system may include a frame, column connection members connected to the frame, and four-sided column members positioned adjacent one another and rotatably connected to the column connection members. Each column member may include a connector and elongate display members positioned adjacent one another and pivotally connected to the connector. The display system may also include a drive assembly carried by the frame that engages the column connection members to rotate each column member so that selective display members pivot in a predetermined direction during rotation to change the shape of the column members allowing rotation thereof when positioned adjacent one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: AD4, LLC
    Inventors: James P. Lyons, Michael W. MacGeorge, John Norton Reynolds, IV
  • Patent number: 6946975
    Abstract: An airfield guidance sign. The sign 100 (of FIG. 1a) includes a case (102), a multi-element light source (114) attached to the case (102) for providing light interior to the case (102), a light dispersion subsystem of the case for dispersing the light from the light source (114) substantially uniformly throughout the interior of the case (102); and a side panel (126) forming a side of the case (102) for displaying information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Siemens Airfield Solutions
    Inventors: Richard L. Hansler, Glenn Morrow
  • Patent number: 6899934
    Abstract: A new and improved bulletin board comprises a rigid support or backing member, and a tablet comprising a stacked array of adhesive-coated sheets, mounted upon the rigid support or backing member, wherein each one of the adhesive-coated sheets is adapted to have various different objects, such as, for example, notices, memos, notes, bills, pens, pencils, coupons, or the like, adhered thereon. By forming the bulletin board so as to comprise the plurality of adhesive-coated sheets, an exposed adhesive-coated sheet, whose tack level has degraded with time, may simply be removed from the tablet or stacked array of adhesive-coated sheets so as to expose a new or fresh adhesive-coated sheet which can now be used to again securely adhere objects upon the bulletin board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Martin D. Beyer