Abstract: A sweeping signal generator generates sequences of logic-level pulses of variable pulse-width. The logic-level pulses are amplified and applied to the electrodes of a discharge lamp. The illumination region of the discharge lamp is dynamically varied in size by dynamically varying the widths of the pulses, thereby producing sweeping effects and other display effects. In the preferred embodiment the sweeping signal generator comprises a microprocessor, a counter and a tri-state buffer. The microprocessor periodically loads the counter with an initial count value to initiate a pulse at the output of the tri-state buffer. The value loaded into the counter controls the duration of the pulse. Pulses are then amplified using a circuit which comprises a switching transistor, a power source, and a step-up transformer.

Abstract: An apparatus for coupling AC electrical energy from a stationary source to a moving electrical device includes an input for receiving a source of AC electrical energy. The apparatus also includes a stationary, electrically-conductive plate and a moveable, electrically-conductive plate which is proximate to the stationary plate. A power consuming electrical device is electrically connected to the moveable plate. The invention couples energy from the AC source to the power consuming device by means of a capacitive link established between the stationary plate and the moveable plate. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the power consuming device comprises a neon tube or an electrical motor.

Abstract: A discharge lamp has an outer discharge tube and an inner discharge tube. The outer tube includes an envelope of glass enclosing an inert gas, a first electrode mounted within the envelope, a second electrode formed of a transparent film deposited on the exterior surface of the envelope, and a fluorescent material coated on the interior surface of the envelope for producing a light in a desired color when a voltage is applied across the two electrodes. The inner tube is inserted in the outer tube and includes an envelope of glass enclosing an inert gas, a third electrode mounted within the envelope, the third electrode utilizing the second electrode of the outer tube as an opposite electrode for producing luminous discharge, and a fluorescent material coated on the interior surface of the envelope for producing a light in a color different from the one produced by the fluorescent material on the outer tube.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a discharge lamp type display device which comprises mainly at least one discharge lamp formed by a discharge tube in which inert gas is charged. The discharge lamp comprises a pair of electrodes one of which is locally provided within the discharge tube adjacent one end thereof and the other is formed of electrically conductive, light transmissive film deposited on the exterior surface of the discharge tube. The display device further comprises means for gradually increasing or decreasing the voltage or the frequency of discharge power to be supplied between the two electrodes of the discharge lamp, whereby illumination region of the discharge lamp is variably controlled.

Abstract: Display device using a discharge lamp for displaying a series of message formed of characters, numerals or symbols by combining various kinds of discharge lamps which are different in shape and size. Inert gas is charged in a glass tube of the discharge lamp, one of the electrodes is provided within the glass tube and the other is provided outside of the glass tube. Pulse signal or AC signal generator is provided and serves to supply such signals to both electrodes. The various kinds of discharge lamps are combined and arranged on the surface plate of a display unit. A plurality of display units are combined and magnetically connected to a display panel. A plurality of electrically conductive segments mounted on the back portion of the display unit are electrically connected to a plurality of feeder plates. Additionally, there are provided in the display unit a boosting transformer for boosting pulse signals or AC signals to be supplied, a transistor, and power supply.

Abstract: A stroboscopic discharge tube for use in photography is provided which comprises a light-transmitting tube having its opposite ends closed, a cathode and an anode disposed within said tube, and plasma producing gas, said cathode comprising a first electric conducting stem extending through one end of the tube into the interior of the tube and a cathodic annular ring made of emissive material affixed to the stem at least by means of welding, said anode comprising a second electric conducting stem extending through the other end of the tube into the tube interior and an anodic annular ring made of impurity gas absorbing material secured to the second stem, the diameters of the cathodic and anodic rings being such that the outer peripheries of the rings are closely adjacent to the inner wall of the tube so as to define a confined discharging region between the two rings. The discharge tube of the invention provides stable light.