Patents Assigned to Daktronics, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8702048
    Abstract: An electronic sign having slotted frame cabinets, whereby each slotted frame cabinet can conveniently be attached to one or more vertically or horizontally positioned adjacent slotted frame cabinets by using connecting components which are generally located around the periphery of one or more slotted frame cabinets. Connecting components including splice bars, splice plates, and mounting clamps are aligned in, positioned along, and secured to backing bars which are co-located in backing bar slots in one or more of the slotted frame cabinets. Lift eyes can be variably located in one or more lift eye slots. The use of externally located connecting components, which do not extend through the cabinetry, minimize the entry of environmental elements into the interior of the electronic sign. Multiple slotted frame cabinets can be connected without the removal of LED display panels. Bracket assemblies and clamping assemblies are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kory D. Kludt, Jon M. Mammenga, Nathan W. Hart, Michael A. Hulscher
  • Patent number: 8694579
    Abstract: A client-server based enterprise network system providing network services and applications to administer, manage, control access to, and use a plurality of programmable electronic display devices and systems is disclosed. The enterprise network system may include client-server network system configurations and methods to enable a plurality of enterprise users to expeditiously, efficiently and securely access and use enterprise network resources and capabilities, including provisioning of graphical display content on a plurality of programmable electronic display systems sited locally, regionally, globally or in combination thereof. The enterprise network system and the network services and capabilities here disclosed, may be accessed through Web-enabled applications with Internet/Web browsers, which enable users to access network services and capabilities from any Internet/Web-enabled computer or workstation from any location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Reece A. Kurtenbach, Brian F. Vogl, Joseph G. Schulte, Jeremy C. Johnson, Brent A. Joffer, Steven J. Top, Thomas R. Mittan
  • Publication number: 20140016319
    Abstract: Discrete flexible pixel assemblies can be hermetically sealed from the environment and can comprise unitary, self-contained replaceable modules which enable efficient, economical production of large scale, free-form electronic displays, signs and lighting effects for outdoor use. The method and means for producing hermetically sealed discrete flexible pixel assemblies can include encapsulation means, exterior encasement means, and cable connector means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett David Wendler, Eric Steven Bravek, Erich J. Grebel
  • Publication number: 20140003052
    Abstract: Display module mounting configurations and methods are disclosed. A frame for an LED module can comprise a first face configured for coupling with an LED circuit board, a second face configured for mounting to a support chassis, and one or more translating structures coupled to the second face. Each translating structure can be configured to engage a feature of the support chassis effectuating a translation of the LED module to avoid contact or interference with an adjacently-positioned LED module, mounted to the support chassis, during a mounting or a dismounting procedure. The LED module can also include one or more securing structures coupled to the second face. An LED module can include a circuit board including a plurality of LEDs, and the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan Hemiller, Ryan J. Nielsen, Shannon Lee Mutschelknaus
  • Publication number: 20140003050
    Abstract: Display module mounting configurations and methods are disclosed. A frame for a video display module can comprise a first face configured for coupling with a light-emitting element circuit board and a second face configured for mounting to a support chassis and one or more first securing structures coupled to the second face, the one or more first securing structures being configured to mount or secure the frame to the support chassis. The frame can also include one or more security latches each comprising a latch body movable between a latched position and an unlatched position, each latch body configured to engage a first feature of the support chassis to prevent removal of the video display module when in the latched position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan Hemiller, Ryan J. Nielsen, Shannon Lee Mutschelknaus
  • Patent number: 8604509
    Abstract: Discreet flexible pixel elements connected in series comprise flexible pixel strings that are conformably applied to irregular shapes and surfaces thereby to produce free-form electronic displays and signage. Means for serial connection of discreet flexible pixel elements enable efficient power, data and control signal distribution. Image data conversion means translates conventional graphical image data into visual image data and control signals to drive discreet flexible pixel elements. The discreet flexible pixel element, serial connection means, and signal distribution means of the present invention enable efficient, economical production of large scale, free-form electronic displays, signs and lighting effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett David Wendler, Eric Steven Bravek, Erich J. Grebel
  • Patent number: 8552928
    Abstract: Discrete flexible pixel assemblies can be hermetically sealed from the environment and can comprise unitary, self-contained replaceable modules which enable efficient, economical production of large scale, free-form electronic displays, signs and lighting effects for outdoor use. The method and means for producing hermetically sealed discrete flexible pixel assemblies can include encapsulation means, exterior encasement means, and cable connector means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett David Wendler, Eric Steven Bravek, Erich J. Grebel
  • Patent number: 8552929
    Abstract: A graphical display station of arbitrary shape such as channel letters or other shaped structures is populated with pixels which are components of flexible pixel strings which can be arranged to fit the arbitrary shape(s). The flexible pixel strings provide for straightforward and cost effective fabrication of channel letter or other shaped displays. The invention also includes pixel units which comprise lighting elements together with such control circuits as are needed to roperly drive the lighting elements to form a graphical image. Addressing of the particular pixels is provided to accommodate the arbitrary arrangement of pixels of the flexible pixel strings. Methods of fabricating a channel letter display are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Mittan, Chad Neal Gloege, Brett David Wendler
  • Publication number: 20130229797
    Abstract: An LED panel assembly includes a circuit board having a plurality of LEDs. An LED seal louver is coupled over the circuit board. The LED seal louver includes a substrate and a pliable seal membrane. The substrate includes one or more substrate cavities. The pliable seal membrane is coupled with the substrate, and the pliable seal membrane includes a pliable material partially extending across the one or more substrate cavities. One or more LED passages extends through the pliable material adjacent to the substrate cavities. Each of the LED passages is sized and shaped to receive a single LED. Bulbs for one or more of the plurality of LEDs are correspondingly received within the LED passages, and the pliable material seals around each bulb with an interference fit. The bulbs are directly visible through the LED seal louver while the pliable seal membrane is sealed around the bulbs, and the circuit board is concealed by the LED seal louver and isolated from an environment exterior to the LED panel assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan Lane Nearman
  • Publication number: 20130150988
    Abstract: A software application program that intelligently interfaces with a statistical data recording program, mass data storage devices and programmable electronic display devices to monitor the situational current state of a real-time event or activity such as a sporting contest and to identify, select, compile, organize, prioritize, present and recommend a plurality of relevant data items compiled from a plurality of recorded data sources to provide visual display content for selection by an operator for display on one or more electronic display boards. The intelligent interface software application program enables an operator of a programmable electronic display device instantly to review and select relevant data items corresponding to a given situational current state of a real-time event or activity and transmit selected data items for display on electronic display boards to a viewing party or public.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Thomas Kuck, Jon Curtis Grann, Samuel A. Martens, Casey M. Stout
  • Publication number: 20130120395
    Abstract: A graphical display station of arbitrary shape such as channel letters or other shaped structures is populated with pixels which are components of flexible pixel strings which can be arranged to fit the arbitrary shape(s). The flexible pixel strings provide for straightforward and cost effective fabrication of channel letter or other shaped displays. The invention also includes pixel units which comprise lighting elements together with such control circuits as are needed to roperly drive the lighting elements to form a graphical image. Addressing of the particular pixels is provided to accommodate the arbitrary arrangement of pixels of the flexible pixel strings. Methods of fabricating a channel letter display are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2013
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Daktronics, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8414149
    Abstract: An LED panel assembly includes a circuit board having a plurality of LEDs. An LED seal louver is coupled over the circuit board. The LED seal louver includes a substrate and a pliable seal membrane. The substrate includes one or more substrate cavities. The pliable seal membrane is coupled with the substrate, and the pliable seal membrane includes a pliable material partially extending across the one or more substrate cavities. One or more LED passages extends through the pliable material adjacent to the substrate cavities. Each of the LED passages is sized and shaped to receive a single LED. Bulbs for one or more of the plurality of LEDs are correspondingly received within the LED passages, and the pliable material seals around each bulb with an interference fit. The bulbs are directly visible through the LED seal louver while the pliable seal membrane is sealed around the bulbs, and the circuit board is concealed by the LED seal louver and isolated from an environment exterior to the LED panel assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan Lane Nearman
  • Patent number: 8400436
    Abstract: A software application program that intelligently interfaces with a statistical data recording program, mass data storage devices and programmable electronic display devices to monitor the situational current state of a real-time event or activity such as a sporting contest and to identify, select, compile, organize, prioritize, present and recommend a plurality of relevant data items compiled from a plurality of recorded data sources to provide visual display content for selection by an operator for display on one or more electronic display boards. The intelligent interface software application program enables an operator of a programmable electronic display device instantly to review and select relevant data items corresponding to a given situational current state of a real-time event or activity and transmit selected data items for display on electronic display boards to a viewing party or public.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony T. Kuck, Jon C. Grann, Samuel A. Martens, Casey M. Stout
  • Patent number: 8363038
    Abstract: A graphical display station of arbitrary shape such as channel letters or other shaped structures is populated with pixels which are components of flexible pixel strings which can be arranged to fit the arbitrary shape(s). The flexible pixel strings provide for straightforward and cost effective fabrication of channel letter or other shaped displays. The invention also includes pixel units which comprise lighting elements together with such control circuits as are needed to roperly drive the lighting elements to form a graphical image. Addressing of the particular pixels is provided to accommodate the arbitrary arrangement of pixels of the flexible pixel strings. Methods of fabricating a channel letter display are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Mittan, Chad Neal Gloege, Brett David Wendler
  • Patent number: 8350788
    Abstract: A louver panel for an electronic sign incorporating multiple spaced primary and secondary louvers extending outwardly from a configured substantially planar panel to provide direct shading of the structure adjacent to an LED, to the structure of the louver panel including the louvers and the panel, and to provide shading for all or part of an LED. Spacings of the louvers provide for regions of shade which improve contrast and which in transition between panels camouflage horizontal seams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Nathan L. Nearman, Brett D. Wendler, Eric S. Bravek, Chad N. Gloege, Matthew R. Mueller, Jason N. Harms
  • Publication number: 20130002634
    Abstract: Discreet flexible pixel elements connected in series comprise flexible pixel strings that are conformably applied to irregular shapes and surfaces thereby to produce free-form electronic displays and signage. Means for serial connection of discreet flexible pixel elements enable efficient power, data and control signal distribution. Image data conversion means translates conventional graphical image data into visual image data and control signals to drive discreet flexible pixel elements. The discreet flexible pixel element, serial connection means, and signal distribution means of the present invention enable efficient, economical production of large scale, free-form electronic displays, signs and lighting effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett D. Wendler, Eric S. Bravek, Erich J. Grebel
  • Patent number: 8344410
    Abstract: Discrete flexible pixel elements are hermetically sealed from the environment and comprise unitary, self-contained replaceable modules which enable efficient, economical production of large scale, free-form electronic displays, signs and lighting effects for outdoor use. The method and means for producing hermetically sealed discrete flexible pixel elements include encapsulation means, exterior casement means, and cable connector means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett D. Wendler, Eric S. Bravek, Erich J. Grebel
  • Publication number: 20120274675
    Abstract: Pixel interleaving configurations for use in high definition electronic sign displays where each and every scan line includes full red, green, and blue color representation to provide for high resolution electronic video sign displays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent A. Joffer, Brett D. Wendler, Glenn P. Luke, Nathan L. Nearman, Chad N. Gloege, Mathew R. Mueller, Shannon Lee Mutschelknaus, Joseph G. Schulte, Eric S. Bravek, Ryan M. Hansen
  • Patent number: 8301939
    Abstract: Disclosed are redundant data path(s) for transmission of graphical data between components in a graphical display system. The redundant data path(s) are used to transmit graphical data by at least two independent means, so that if a failure in one data path occurs, a data transmitted via a separate data path can be used for display. The system is particularly advantageous for multiple-serial-module configurations. The redundant data path(s) minimize disruption of data display and make repair and maintenance of the display system more efficient. The invention includes apparatus for graphical display systems, and also includes methods of data transmission for graphical display systems, and methods of maintenance of graphical display systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Chad N. Gloege, Matthew R. Mueller, Neil R. Burghardt, Brett D. Wendler
  • Patent number: 8269700
    Abstract: Pixel interleaving configurations for use in high definition electronic sign displays where each and every scan line includes full red, green, and blue color representation to provide for high resolution electronic video sign displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent A. Joffer, Brett David Wendler, Glenn P. Luke, Nathan Lane Nearman, Chad Neal Gloege, Matthew Ray Mueller, Shannon Lee Mutschelknaus, Joseph Gerard Schulte, Eric Steven Bravek, Ryan Mark Hansen