Abstract: A segment display system (10) whereby ultraviolet energy is generated and contacted with fluorescent material coatings (78) to create electromagnetic wave generation within the visible bandwidth of the electromagnetic spectrum through fluorescent excitation of the fluorescent material coatings (78). Ultraviolet energy is generated from the ionization of metallic atoms from a metallic coating (42) coated to through opening sidewalls (40) of slots (38) forming the cathode mechanism (26). The slot through openings (38) are in registration with the fluorescent material coatings (78) mounted on a display panel member (80). Below the cathode mechanism (26) is a common anode element (62). Each of the metallic coatings (42) formed within each of the slot through openings (38) is coupled to an external electrical source as is the anode element (62).

Abstract: A monochromatic and polychromatic display system (10) which is operative by the generation of ultraviolet energy impinging on fluorescent material compositions (54) in order to create electromagnetic wave generation within the visible bandwidth of the electromagnetic spectrum through fluorescent excitation of fluorescent material (54). The operative ultraviolet energy produced results from the ionization of metallic atoms from a metallic coating (28) applied to cathode opening sidewalls (26) of a cathode mechanism (12). The display system (10) includes a matrix of cathode openings (22) formed in a cathode plate member (14). The cathode openings (22) define the cathode opening sidewalls (26) which have a metallic coating (28) applied thereto. The sidewall metallic coatings (28) and additionally, the metallic coating annular portion (30) of each hollow cathode cavity are coupled to a next succeeding cathode element in a linear column direction (32).