Abstract: The present invention relates to a communication systems, and more specifically to a vehicular messaging display unit. The unit allows one of a plurality of messages to be displayed on at least one of the front or rear windshield to other drivers. A remote control unit is provided for customizing messages by the user in terms of content and appearance as well as for controlling the display of the messages. The display is designed so that it does not impede the safety of drivers.

Abstract: A tubular thin film resistance heater including a substrate (10) having an electrically non-conductive surface on which is deposited a thin film electrical conductor (12), such as tin oxide. A pair of electrical terminals (14, 16), preferably bus bars, are electrically connected at spaced apart locations on the conductor (12), such as at longitudinal spaced opposed ends or at circumferentially spaced opposed edges of the conductor (12). The thin film conductor (12) is molecularly bonded to the substrate (10) for durability and efficient heat transfer. A method of forming a tubular thin film resistance heater also is disclosed.

Abstract: A tubular thin film resistance heater including a substrate (10) having an electrically non-conductive surface on which is deposited a thin film electrical conductor (12), such as tin oxide. A pair of electrical terminals (14, 16), preferably bus bars, are electrically connected at spaced apart locations on the conductor (12), such as at longitudinal spaced opposed ends or at circumferentially spaced opposed edges of the conductor (12). The thin film conductor (12) is molecularly bonded to the substrate (10) for durability and efficient heat transfer. A method of forming a tubular thin film resistance heater also is disclosed.

Abstract: A large-area, thin film, resistance heating element (21, 46, 81) including a relatively rigid substrate (22, 63, 82), which will retain its mechanical properties at elevated temperatures, an electrically conductive film (26, 64, 84) deposited on the substrate (21, 46, 81), and electrical terminals (31, 66, 86) provided on the film (26, 64, 84). A metallic substrate (22, 63), such as a steel sheet, having an electrically insulating ceramic-based layer (23, 62, 83) thereon may be employed, or alternatively, a micanite plate or sheet (61) can be used. The substrate and film have an area which is sufficiently large that the heater can operate at maximum temperatures above 100.degree. F. with a power density less than about 15 watts per square inch.