Patents by Inventor Brett D. Wendler

Brett D. Wendler has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • 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
  • Publication number: 20120119980
    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: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent A. Joffer, Brett D. Wendler, Glenn P. Luke, Nathan L. Nearman, Chad N. Gloege, Matthew R. Mueller, Shannon Lee Mutschelknaus, Joseph G. Schulte, Eric S. Bravek, Ryan M. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20120120033
    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 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Mittan, Chad N. Gloege, Brett D. Wendler
  • Patent number: 8130175
    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: July 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent A. Joffer, Brett D. Wendler, Glenn P. Luke, Nathan L. Nearman, Chad N. Gloege, Matthew R. Mueller, Shannon Lee Mutschelknaus, Joseph G. Schulte, Eric S. Bravek, Ryan M. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20120005563
    Abstract: The present invention relates to image displays and signage, and more particularly, to displays of custom or arbitrary shape. Such shaped displays include channel letter displays, logo or design displays, multiple displays in an assembly, multiple display modules, curved or round displays, or other arbitrary shaped or unusual aspect ratio displays. The present invention further relates to software, apparatus, and methods for a translation table which maps graphical data from an initial shape to an arbitrary shape for use on such displays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Chad N. Gloege, Matthew R. Mueller, Neil R. Burghardt, Joseph G. Schulte, Brett D. Wendler
  • Patent number: 8001455
    Abstract: The present invention relates to image displays and signage, and more particularly, to displays of custom or arbitrary shape. Such shaped displays include channel letter displays, logo or design displays, multiple displays in an assembly, multiple display modules, curved or round displays, or other arbitrary shaped or unusual aspect ratio displays. The present invention further relates to software, apparatus, and methods for a translation table which maps graphical data from an initial shape to an arbitrary shape for use on such displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Chad N. Gloege, Matthew R. Mueller, Neil R. Burghardt, Joseph G. Schulte, Brett D. Wendler
  • Publication number: 20110175888
    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: March 31, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: DAKTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: BRENT A. JOFFER, BRETT D. WENDLER, GLENN P. LUKE, NATHAN L. NEARMAN, CHAD N. GLOEGE, MATT R. MUELLER, SHANNON LEE MUTSCHELKNAUS, JOSEPH G. SCHULTE, ERIC S. BRAVEK, RYAN M. HANSEN
  • Publication number: 20110163942
    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: March 14, 2011
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent A. Joffer, Brett D. Wendler, Glenn P. Luke, Nathan L. Nearman, Chad N. Gloege, Matt R. Mueller, Shannon Lee Mutschelknaus, Joseph G. Schulte, Eric S. Bravek, Ryan M. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20110141139
    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: February 21, 2011
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Mittan, Chad N. Gloege, Brett D. Wendler
  • Publication number: 20110102307
    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: January 10, 2011
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett D. Wendler, Eric S. Bravek, Erich J. Grebel
  • Patent number: 7907133
    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: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent A. Joffer, Brett D. Wendler, Glenn P. Luke, Nathan L. Nearman, Chad N. Gloege, Matt R. Mueller, Shannon Lee Mutschelknaus, Joseph G. Schulte, Eric S. Bravek, Ryan M. Hansen
  • Patent number: 7893948
    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 properly 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: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Mittan, Chad N. Gloege, Brett D. Wendler
  • Patent number: 7868903
    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 11, 2011
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett D. Wendler, Eric S. Bravek, Erich J. Grebel
  • Publication number: 20090024867
    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: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventors: Chad N. Gloege, Matthew R. Mueller, Neil R. Burghardt, Brett D. Wendler
  • Publication number: 20090021497
    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: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventors: Brett D. Wendler, Eric S. Bravek, Erich J. Grebel
  • Publication number: 20090021532
    Abstract: The present invention relates to image displays and signage, and more particularly, to displays of custom or arbitrary shape. Such shaped displays include channel letter displays, logo or design displays, multiple displays in an assembly, multiple display modules, curved or round displays, or other arbitrary shaped or unusual aspect ratio displays. The present invention further relates to software, apparatus, and methods for a translation table which maps graphical data from an initial shape to an arbitrary shape for use on such displays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventors: Chad N. Gloege, Matthew R. Mueller, Neil R. Burghardt, Joseph G. Schulte, Brett D. Wendler