Illuminated Patents (Class 40/452)
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Patent number: 10482800Abstract: A dynamic sign, and method for manufacture thereof, is provided. The sign comprises a display comprising at least one dynamic display surface configured for projecting dynamic graphical elements. The sign also comprises a perforated mask superposed on the at least one dynamic display surface of the display, the mask comprising at least one opening formed therein. The sign further comprises at least one optical guide inserted into the at least one opening, the at least one optical guide positioned for carrying light from the display through the at least one opening and allowing the dynamic graphical elements to be seen therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2017Date of Patent: November 19, 2019Assignee: INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF LUMINAIRES LUMID INC.Inventor: Dominique Alary
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Patent number: 10443578Abstract: A wind turbine ID marker arrangement to enable a wind turbine installation to be identified from the air, the ID marker arrangement comprising a display surface to which a pattern of tiles are removably attached.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2016Date of Patent: October 15, 2019Assignee: MHI Vestas Offshore Wind A/SInventors: Matthieu Alexandre, Torben Møller Hansen, Karl Axel Pétursson
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Patent number: 10234104Abstract: A lighting system comprises a flexible support, such as a pair of fabric or web-like strips, and a plurality of tubular light sources supported by the flexible support. The flexible support may be hung from a support structure, and the tubular light sources will hang generally parallel to one another. Each tubular light source may include a plurality of LED chips, and power supply or conversion circuitry may also be disposed in the tubular light sources. Power cabling extends to the light sources, and may be adapted to provide pass-through power to other, similar assemblies to form a modular system. The assemblies may be easily deployed and repacked for storage and movement. The system is suitable for large area lighting, particularly with panels used for theater, television, and film sets, or with displays, trade show installations, and so forth.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2013Date of Patent: March 19, 2019Assignee: NBCUniversal Media, LLCInventor: Richard William Maas
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Patent number: 9801280Abstract: A circuit module includes a main body and a PCI-E insert row, the main body has a substrate portion and a light-emitting portion, the substrate portion includes a board and a first coating layer, the board has a light-transmittable portion and a first face, the first coating layer is coated on the first face, the first coating layer has an emergent light-transmittable portion corresponding to the light-transmittable portion. The PCI-E insert row is disposed on the substrate portion. The electronic device includes the circuit module mentioned above and further includes a shell portion. The shell portion is covered on two opposite lateral faces of the circuit module and at least shields the light-emitting portion, and the shell portion further has a second light-transmittable portion corresponding to the emergent light-transmittable portion.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Alson Technology LimitedInventors: Han-Hung Cheng, Chi-Fen Kuo
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Patent number: 9754518Abstract: Display module mounting apparatus and methods provide mounting features enabling ease of installation and service. The apparatus may have one or more releasable frame couplers and pivoting releasable frame couplers coupled to a display module having a display plane defined in relation to a substrate. One or more adjustable linkages may adjustably define a standoff distance between the display plane and a support frame to which the module may be mounted by the mounting apparatus. Concave and convex adjustments to the display plane may be made. Operation of pivoting action to tilt the display plane enables installation, removal, and serviceability of large displays constructed with a tiled plurality of display modules.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2016Date of Patent: September 5, 2017Assignee: Nanolumens Acquisition, Inc.Inventors: Jorge Perez-Bravo, Qinghua Xiao, Bin Zhu
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Patent number: 9343000Abstract: A fine pitch full color variable message sign has a housing with a front face. A number of printed circuit boards are arranged along the front face of the housing. A number of LEDs are attached to each of the printed circuit boards. The LEDs are grouped into a number of pixels, each pixel has three LEDs arranged in a line. A mask covers the printed circuit boards. The mask has a number of elliptical apertures. A glazing may cover the printed circuit boards and is between the printed circuit boards and the mask. Each pixel has three LEDs; red, blue, and green. The LEDs that form a pixel are arranged in a line. The elliptical apertures are aligned with each pixel.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2010Date of Patent: May 17, 2016Assignee: Skyline Products, Inc.Inventor: Robert Charles Stadjuhar
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Patent number: 9297525Abstract: The present invention is an LED module for channel letter illumination utilizing multiple through-hole LEDs in a pixel formation as a light source where one surface mounted LED or other forms of LEDs were previously used. The use of a number of small through-hole LEDs ideally requires that a beam angle between and including 15° and 180° in vertical and horizontal directions, respectively, be utilized. When multiple light sources are used on a module, the distance between light sources is to be between 20 mm and 1 cm. The use of several smaller LEDs reduces the current needed to generate light of appropriate intensity and, thus reduces energy cost and heat generation. The use of smaller LEDs also assists in excess heat dissipation.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2010Date of Patent: March 29, 2016Assignee: EPISTAR CORPORATIONInventor: Densen Cao
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Patent number: 9279573Abstract: Display module mounting apparatus and methods provide mounting features enabling ease of installation and service. The apparatus may have one or more releasable frame couplers and pivoting releasable frame couplers coupled to a display module having a display plane defined in relation to a substrate. One or more adjustable linkages may adjustably define a standoff distance between the display plane and a support frame to which the module may be mounted by the mounting apparatus. Concave and convex adjustments to the display plane may be made. Operation of pivoting action to tilt the display plane enables installation, removal, and serviceability of large displays constructed with a tiled plurality of display modules.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2015Date of Patent: March 8, 2016Assignee: Nanolumens Acquisition, Inc.Inventors: Jorge Perez-Bravo, Qinghua Xiao, Bin Zhu
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Publication number: 20150113841Abstract: In one aspect, an alphanumeric display assembly includes a printed circuit board (PCB), a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and a plurality of light reflecting cups. The PCB has a front side and a rear side and includes a plurality of holes extending through the PCB between the front and rear sides. The holes are arranged to form an alphanumeric indicium. The LEDs are mounted to the PCB on the rear side. At least one LED is mounted adjacent to each hole. The plurality of light reflecting cups are mounted to the PCB on the rear side. Each light reflecting cup covers the at least one LED and the adjacent hole, and is spaced from the at least one LED and the adjacent hole to reflect light from the LEDs through the holes so the alphanumeric indicium is visible from the front side.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2013Publication date: April 30, 2015Applicant: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: MATTHEW P. EBROM, ERIC J. SCHUH, SITHAARTH T. SUBRAMANIYAM, SUGOSH VENKATARAMAN
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Publication number: 20150082674Abstract: A signage system (10) including one or more visual display devices (11), each mounted for display behind the windshield (15) of one or more parked and ignition-off vehicles (16). Each sign (11) has a visual display surface (12) that is capable of forming an illuminated graphic display (13) on the visual display surface (12). The visual display surface (12) would be visible to observers in front of the vehicle (16). The system (10) includes wireless communication hardware (60) that allows the visual display (11) to be programmed by a remote programming device (41). Each of the display devices (11) can be programmed to have a separate message and each message would scroll from left to right across the display surface (12) in a time coordinated manner so that the message appears to scroll consistently from left to right across the visual field of the plurality of display surfaces (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2014Publication date: March 26, 2015Inventor: MARK WAGNER
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Publication number: 20140338237Abstract: An illuminated electronic display sign suitable for a transit vehicle comprises a support frame with a mounting surface, a plurality of lighting elements disposed on or attached to the mounting surface, and electronic circuitry configured to provide commands to selectively illuminate the lighting elements so as to create text or other information thereon. The lighting elements each comprise a semiconductor-based light source and an optical cap, each having a transparent layer portion and a diffusion layer portion. The optical caps may be generally rectangular in shape, aligned in a two-dimensional grid having rows and columns and are substantially adjacent to one another, with narrow gaps therebetween for increased display area. The optical caps may be asymmetrical, with a flat upper portion and a gradually tapering top surface to help reduce glare. A control system including wireless circuitry may be used to control multiple electronic display signs.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2013Publication date: November 20, 2014Inventors: Yun-Ping Chu, Jerry Lin, Yongchan Wang, Ren-Chen Chao, Chin-Tin Hsiao, Chih-Li Wang, Fang-Ying Huang
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Patent number: 8875426Abstract: A signage system (10) including one or more visual display devices (11), each mounted for display behind the windshield (15) of one or more parked and ignition-off vehicles (16). Each sign (11) has a visual display surface (12) that is capable of forming an illuminated graphic display (13) on the visual display surface (12). The visual display surface (12) would be visible to observers in front of the vehicle (16). The system (10) includes wireless communication hardware (60) that allows the visual display (11) to be programmed by a remote programming device (41). Each of the display devices (11) can be programmed to have a separate message and each message would scroll from left to right across the display surface (12) in a time coordinated manner so that the message appears to scroll consistently from left to right across the visual field of the plurality of display surfaces (12).Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2009Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Inventor: Mark W. Wagner
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Patent number: 8807788Abstract: An information display device illuminates a light pipe, and includes a controller to regulate the power levels delivered to a light source, thereby regulating the amount of light delivered to the light pipe. Alternatively, the information display device delivers visual data, including alpha-numeric characters, predetermined images, or a controlled phasing. The information display device may be utilized to illuminate information associated with the structure. The illumination system provides the ability to phase between different colors, as well as blended colors. Accordingly, an information display device phases between varying colors, and may blend colors to create color schemes. The illumination system includes a control module disposed within the structure to control device parameters.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2013Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Inventor: John Vira
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Patent number: 8766880Abstract: A system and method are provided for a pixel module to determine its location in a large scale LED display. The system and method determine the pixel module's location based upon the data received by the module and the identity of the module's port via which the data was received.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2007Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Inventors: Hamid Kharrati, Robert J. Sefton
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Patent number: 8739441Abstract: An exemplary power regulator apparatus provides power for illumination of a display object, such as a merchandise package or container, which has a light emitting apparatus comprising a secondary inductor and an illumination source. A support structure, such as a point of purchase display, typically contains or supports one or more power regulators and display objects. The power regulator comprises a controller and a primary inductor, and the controller is adapted to provide a voltage or current to the primary inductor to generate a primary inductor voltage. The controller may also comprise a plurality of switches and a memory adapted to store values for switching frequency or switch on-time durations or pulse widths. The illumination source emits visible light when the power regulator is in an on state and when the secondary inductor is within a predetermined distance of the primary inductor.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2011Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: NthDegree Technologies Worldwide IncInventors: Mark D. Lowenthal, William Johnstone Ray, David R. Bowden, Peter Michael Bray
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Patent number: 8506115Abstract: An information display device illuminates a light pipe, and includes a controller to regulate the power levels delivered to a light source, thereby regulating the amount of light delivered to the light pipe. Alternatively, the information display device delivers visual data, including alpha-numeric characters, predetermined images, or a controlled phasing. The information display device may be utilized to illuminate information associated with the structure. The illumination system provides the ability to phase between different colors, as well as blended colors. Accordingly, an information display device phases between varying colors, and may blend colors to create color schemes. The illumination system includes a control module disposed within the structure to control device parameters.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2012Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Inventors: Thomas J. Chadwell, Michael T. Romanyszyn, John Vira
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Patent number: 8388187Abstract: An information display device illuminates a light pipe, and includes a controller to regulate the power levels delivered to a light source, thereby regulating the amount of light delivered to the light pipe. Alternatively, the information display device delivers visual data, including alpha-numeric characters, predetermined images, or a controlled phasing. The information display device may be utilized to illuminate information associated with the structure. The illumination system provides the ability to phase between different colors, as well as blended colors. Accordingly, an information display device phases between varying colors, and may blend colors to create color schemes. The illumination system includes a control module disposed within the structure to control device parameters.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2010Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Inventors: Thomas J. Chadwell, Michael T. Romanyszyn, John Vira
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Publication number: 20120324771Abstract: Disclosed is a displayed device having a top and bottom elongate rail and a display module for displaying alpha numeric information to passengers on a mass transit vehicle. The display modules may be mounted along a top and bottom edge directly to the top and bottom elongate rails. End caps are mounted to the ends of the elongate rail forming a structurally sound frame about the display module.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2011Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: LUMINATOR HOLDING L.P.Inventors: RAMIN SAFAVI, XIAOPING ZHOU, ZHICUN GAO, LARRY TAYLOR
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Patent number: 7992332Abstract: An exemplary power regulator apparatus provides power for illumination of a display object, such as a merchandise package or container, which has a light emitting apparatus comprising a secondary inductor and an illumination source. A support structure, such as a point of purchase display, typically contains or supports one or more power regulators and display objects. The power regulator comprises a controller and a primary inductor, and the controller is adapted to provide a voltage or current to the primary inductor to generate a primary inductor voltage. The controller may also comprise a plurality of switches and a memory adapted to store values for switching frequency or switch on-time durations or pulse widths. The illumination source emits visible light when the power regulator is in an on state and when the secondary inductor is within a predetermined distance of the primary inductor.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2008Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: NthDegree Technologies Worldwide Inc.Inventors: Mark D. Lowenthal, David R. Bowden, William Johnstone Ray, Peter Michael Bray
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Publication number: 20110185607Abstract: The present invention relates to an interactive advertising system and method of using the system. A plurality of removable RFID devices are disposed on a panel which is separate from an advertising graphic that is supported in an illuminated frame. Activation of one of the RFID devices illuminates a portion of the advertising graphic.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2011Publication date: August 4, 2011Applicant: AVERY DENNISON CORPORATIONInventors: Ian J. FORSTER, David A. WELCH, Haochuan WANG
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Publication number: 20110146119Abstract: A signage system (10) including one or more visual display devices (11), each mounted for display behind the windshield (15) of one or more parked and ignition-off vehicles (16). Each sign (11) has a visual display surface (12) that is capable of forming an illuminated graphic display (13) on the visual display surface (12). The visual display surface (12) would be visible to observers in front of the vehicle (16). The system (10) includes wireless communication hardware (60) that allows the visual display (11) to be programmed by a remote programming device (41). Each of the display devices (11) can be programmed to have a separate message and each message would scroll from left to right across the display surface (12) in a time coordinated manner so that the message appears to scroll consistently from left to right across the visual field of the plurality of display surfaces (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2009Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventor: Mark W. Wagner
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Patent number: 7877910Abstract: A display system is described having a plurality of display units, wherein each of the display units is movable between at least a first position and a second position, and wherein each display unit is provided with at least a first light emitting element. Each display unit may be configured to be rotatable about an axis thereof, such that the first position is defined as a first angular position of rotation about the axis, and the second position is defined as a second angular position of rotation about the axis.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2006Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Barco, Inc.Inventors: Nils Thorjussen, Christopher Varrin
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Patent number: 7866859Abstract: A display device for a vehicle has a first display unit constructed of a liquid crystal display for displaying first information and a second display unit including a display portion for displaying second information. The second information is illuminated by receiving light emitted from a light source and displayed at an intensity higher than an intensity of a background area that is illuminated by receiving light emitted from another light source. An optical coloring member is disposed such that an illuminating color and a brightness of the background area of the second display unit are substantially equal to those of a background area of the first information of the liquid crystal display.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2006Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Ryo Suzuki, Yoshinori Araki, Satoru Tamura
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Patent number: 7869198Abstract: The present invention provides a multiple seal electronic display module having displacement springs for distributed use as major components of an electronic sign. Displacement springs are provided to displace the electronic display module from the front of an electronic sign mounting panel until latching mechanisms are properly actuated in order to secure the electronic display module to the electronic sign mounting panel and thus provide a visual clue indicating proper or improper securing. A configured front edge seal provides for multiple surface sealing of multiple components consisting of, but not limited to, a louver panel, an LED circuit board, and a housing. A rear seal is also provided to seal the rear of the electronic display module to the electronic sign mounting panel. Input and output signal jack base seals and a power jack base seal provide effective seals between the housing and the signal and power jacks.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2009Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.Inventors: Nathan L. Nearman, Ryan J. Nielsen, Kent S. Miller, Mark D. Dennis, Bradley D. Rinschen, Douglas P. Tvedt, Lenny A. Sik, Kurt L. Peters, Brian W. Kroll, Derek J. Heronimus, David G. Philips
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Patent number: 7823308Abstract: An electronic sign having a formed metal cabinet where precise and close tolerance formed planar panels and formed channels are fastened together only by rivets, nut inserts, adhesive coated tapes, or the combination thereof for rapid assembly thereof.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2008Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.Inventors: Lane A. Munson, Cassandra L. Fuls
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Patent number: 7806568Abstract: Reconfigurable lighting fixtures, household apparatuses and household fixtures include fixed components and a plurality of removable and interchangeable decorative adornments. The adornments each include at least one magnet that magnetically couples the adornment to a portion of the fixture or apparatus. Some or all of the set of interchangeable adornments may be interchanged to provide the fixtures or apparatus with a different appearance. The adornments may be of different shapes, sizes, and colors and they may be coupled to various non-fixed locations. The adornments may include multiple pieces coupled together and to the magnet using wire, string, chain or metal links. The fixtures or apparatus may be easily disassembled and reassembled by removing and replacing the adornments for cleaning or to change the appearance thereof. The fixture/apparatus may be a chandelier, candle holder, sconce, lamp, bobeche, tract lighting, ceiling fan, curtain rod, lampshade and the like.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2007Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Magnificent Trimmings, Inc.Inventor: Colleen Nielson
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Patent number: 7753570Abstract: To provide protection to the wiring of a light source provided on a ring member which is movably attached to a display screen of a display device, a plurality of connector is arranged on a connecting member where an end of a FPC wiring, which supplies electricity to a light source provided on the ring member and an end of a FFC wiring are connected to, and together with the connecting member a cover is connected to a moving member which has a covering board provided with a fixing pieces which fixes the end of each FPC and FFC wiring to the connecting board.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2007Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventors: Hideaki Kageyama, Yoshiyuki Furuya, Satoshi Saotome
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Patent number: 7708416Abstract: A keypad is provided for a computing device. The keypad includes one or more lighting devices or mechanisms for illuminating a plurality of keys structures. In an embodiment, the plurality of key structures are formed from a milky material.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2007Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Inventor: Michael Yurochko
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Patent number: 7694444Abstract: An electronic sign having a formed metal cabinet where precise and close tolerance formed planar panels and formed channels are fastened together only by rivets, nut inserts or the combination thereof for rapid assembly thereof.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2007Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.Inventors: Kent S. Miller, Todd M. Letcher, Nathan L. Nearman, Lane A. Munson, Cassandra L. Fuls
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Publication number: 20080244943Abstract: A display system comprising a substrate, a first light emitting element mounted on the substrate, a second light emitting element mounted on the substrate adjacent to the first light emitting element, and a baffle disposed between the first light emitting element and the second light emitting element.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2008Publication date: October 9, 2008Applicant: Element Labs, Inc.Inventors: Christopher Varrin, Matthew E. Ward, Jeremy R. Hochman
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Patent number: 7396049Abstract: A flexible sheet which includes a substrate having at least one visually discernable surface and at least one electroluminescent lamp assembly positioned proximate to the surface and controlled by a suitable power source as well as means for isolating at least one electroluminescent lamp assembly from deleterious interaction with environment external to the flexible sheet. The flexible sheet can be employed in various applications including bound books, functional cards, locational orientation devices as well as in mechanisms for selectively indicating ingress or egress from architectural structures and other safety indicators. At least one component of the flexible sheet with the electroluminescent lamp assembly can be produced by drop ejection.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2004Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Veronica A. Nelson, David M Kwasny, Marjan S. Amesbury, Don King
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Publication number: 20080060234Abstract: The present invention provides a message display panel structure including a combination outer frame and a waterproof housing. Grooved joining portions are located on a periphery of an inner side of the combination outer frame, and a rear panel is located at a rear side of the combination outer frame. The waterproof housing is configured with a plurality of light emitting display modules, a plurality of bottom housings, a power supply unit, a signal control box and a signal scanning panel. A rear side of the waterproof housing is mutually joined to the joining portions of the combination outer frame, fixing position thereof, by means of rotating shaft L strips. Accordingly, the present invention is provided with effectiveness of a structure that is simple and fast to assemble, provides labor saving maintenance, has excellent waterproofing quality and improves safety.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2006Publication date: March 13, 2008Inventors: Ching-Pao Chou, Chung-Chin Yang
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Patent number: 7334361Abstract: A system for accessing internal electrical components of an LED display panel assembly includes a case and a display panel having a plurality of LEDs on an outer surface and electrical components on an inner surface. A linkage assembly is coupled to an inner surface of the case and the inner surface of the display panel and configured for generally translational and generally rotational movement of the display panel from a closed position to an open position for accessing the electrical components.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Adaptive Micro Systems LLCInventors: Jesse E. Schrimpf, Kelly J. Bronk, Scott S. Liebert, Gregory P. Schleusner
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Patent number: 7275836Abstract: A keypad is provided for a computing device. The keypad includes one or more lighting devices or mechanisms for illuminating a plurality of keys structures. In an embodiment, the plurality of key structures are formed from a milky material.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Palm, Inc.Inventor: Michael Yurochko
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Patent number: 7231734Abstract: Disclosed is a display device, elongate mount, and display module for displaying alphanumeric information to passengers of a mass transit vehicle. The display modules are mounted along a single edge to a elongate mount. The elongate mount includes at least one end cap which is made of a vibration dampening material. The louver of the display device includes a substantially continuous pressure member in order to place substantially continuous elongate contact to an area of an LED board that houses at least one heating element. The at least one heating element is covered by a thermally conductive foam that transmits heat from the elements to a heat sink of the display module.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2003Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Assignee: Luminator Holding, L.P.Inventors: James Earl Gray, John Bartholomew Gunter
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Patent number: 7167167Abstract: Apparatus for changing the display state of a bistable liquid crystal display on a display tag having a plurality of electrical contact pads connected to a corresponding plurality of electrodes in the liquid crystal display includes a body defining a slot for receiving and locating the display tag with respect to the body; a plurality of contact pins located in the body and being mounted for movement into the slot to contact the electrical contact pads of a display tag located in the slot; drive electronics electrically connected to the contact pins for receiving display command signals from an external source and for applying electrical drive signals to the electrodes of the display when the contact pins are in contact with the electrical contact pads; and operator control means for moving the contact pins into electrical contact with the electrical contact pads and causing the drive electronics to apply the electrical drive signals to the contact pins.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2002Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Robert G. Capurso, David M. Johnson, Domenic Maiola, James M. Papa
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Patent number: 7131226Abstract: Disclosed is a display device, elongate mount, and display module for displaying alphanumeric information to passengers of a mass transit vehicle. The display modules are mounted along a single edge to a elongate mount. The elongate mount includes at least one end cap which is made of a vibration dampening material. The louver of the display device includes a substantially continuous pressure member in order to place substantially continuous elongate contact to an area of an LED board that houses at least one heating element. The at least one heating element is covered by a thermally conductive foam that transmits heat from the elements to a heat sink of the display module.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2004Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: Luminator Holding, L.P.Inventors: James Earl Gray, John Bartholomew Gunter
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Patent number: 7055271Abstract: An electronic display module having a four-point latching system for incorporation into an electronic sign and process where more than one latch mechanism can be actuated simultaneously to deploy to engage the mounting panel assembly of an electronic sign. Gear operated actuating arms incorporated in an overcenter arrangement position latch in opposing latch mechanisms to position latch arms outwardly in a linear direction over a mounting panel assembly followed by pivotal latch positioning to rotationally engage the latch arms against the mounting panel assembly to secure the electronic display module to the mounting panel assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2003Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.Inventors: Robert James Lutz, Nathan Lane Nearman
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Patent number: 6971196Abstract: A message sign includes a panel having a plurality of ribs each defining an interior channel. The plurality of ribs are preferably spaced apart in parallel relationship. At least one lamp is secured through an opening in at least one of the ribs. In one preferred embodiment, the message sign includes a first and second panel, each preferably including a base web, wherein the ribs of the first and second panels extend outwardly from the base web of the respective panels. The base webs of the first and second panels are abutted with the ribs thereof extending outwardly therefrom in opposite directions. The first and second panels are oriented such that at least some of the channels of the first panel cross at least some of the channels of the second panel and form a plurality of junctures of crossing channels. Preferably, at least one lamp is secured through an opening in at least one of the plurality of ribs at one of the junctures. A method of manufacturing a message sign is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2002Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Assignee: National Signal, Inc.Inventors: Mark Fernandez, Carl L. Erwin
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Patent number: 6870655Abstract: A mirror includes a housing, a mirror subassembly including a reflector layer with a portion defining an opening, and an indicia panel covering the opening and configured to form a visual display. At least one light source is positioned in the housing to pass light through the indicia panel and the opening of the mirror subassembly to selectively illuminate the visual display. The at least one light source emits a light matched in color to the indicia panel so that a maximum of light from the at least one light source passes through the indicia panel and is visible to a vehicle driver. Optimally, the light sources emit an amber colored light, and the indicia panel includes a diffusing layer also having an amber color.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2000Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: Bradley L. Northman, John W. Carter, Frederick T. Bauer
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Patent number: 6865835Abstract: Illuminated message displays improve improving traffic safety by notifying drivers of the turning characteristics of semi trailers. Lamps mounted on the front of a circuit board and controlled by a microprocessor display a pattern of messages to warn motorists of the need to not be adjacent to a semi trailer when it makes a right hand turn, to notify motorists when a right hand turn is imminent, and to thank motorists for their cooperation. A wire connects the microprocessor and circuit board to the taillights of a semi trailer so that they are powered when the taillights are turned on. Circuit board holders releasably attach the circuit board to the rear door of a semi trailer. A pair of brackets with end caps are attached to the bottom of the rear bumper of a semi trailer to hold the circuit board and plates safely out of the way when the rear door of the semi trailer is opened.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2002Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Inventor: Allen E. Webster
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Patent number: 6817123Abstract: In a display device, a display surface portion includes a light emitting area on which a plurality of light emitting devices are arranged, and a nonluminous area formed on spaces among the arranged light emitting devices on the display surface portion. The nonluminous area is formed with a nonluminous image and the nonluminous image is displayed on the nonluminous area in color. An emission unit for selectively causing at least one of the light emitting elements to emit light so as to display an image on the display surface portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2002Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Norihiko Okazaki, Takao Niihara, Hisao Shimizu
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Patent number: 6813853Abstract: Electronic alpha-numeric or symbol sectional display system featuring readily accessible access to internally located modular display and other components for quick changeout of modular and other components. Display panels, which are modular, are readily and quickly secured in stackable enclosure cabinets by the use of ¼ turn or other quick fastening hardware. Other changeout friendly hardware is incorporated within to promote economy of manufacturing and changeout functions. Viewability of alpha-numeric or other symbol information is preserved and enhanced by the use of small panel fine mesh screens which maintain planar attributes and which are located at the front of each modular display panel residing in close proximity to the LED character block displays.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2002Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.Inventor: Wayne R. Tucker
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Patent number: 6810612Abstract: A signboard structure includes a case and a face panel detachably connected to a front opening of the case by means of magnetic adherence. The case includes a back panel on which a plurality of light emitting elements are arranged to partially expose from through holes correspondingly provided on the face panel. A watertight and dustproof sealing material is applied into the case to seal joints of the light emitting elements and the back panel to protect the light emitting elements against moistures and dust. Magnetic elements are correspondingly provided on a front side of the back panel and a rear side of the face panel at predetermined positions, so that the face panel can be quickly and detachably assembled to the case to show different static pictures and/or texts painted on the face panel.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2002Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: Agon-Tech. CorporationInventor: Chiao-sheng Huang
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Publication number: 20040148829Abstract: Disclosed is a display device, elongate mount, and display module for displaying alphanumeric information to passengers of a mass transit vehicle. The display modules are mounted along a single edge to a elongate mount. The elongate mount includes at least one end cap which is made of a vibration dampening material. The louver of the display device includes a substantially continuous pressure member in order to place substantially continuous elongate contact to an area of an LED board that houses at least one heating element. The at least one heating element is covered by a thermally conductive foam that transmits heat from the elements to a heat sink of the display module.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2003Publication date: August 5, 2004Inventors: James Earl Gray, John Bartholomew Gunter
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Publication number: 20040123501Abstract: A dynamic messaging sign that includes a plurality of display panels arranged side by side. Each of the display panels include a rigid front panel having an array of aperture holes formed therethrough, and a plurality of pixel modules arranged rearward of the front panel in alignment with the aperture holes for selectively generating indicators visible though the aperture holes. A sheet lens may be located between the planar central portion of the front panel and the pixel modules, extending over the aperture holes.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2003Publication date: July 1, 2004Applicant: Mark IV Industries Ltd.Inventors: Ramin Safavi, Raymond Siu Ming Poon, Vladimir A. Volochine, Coeman Lam Sang Wong
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Patent number: 6729054Abstract: Articulated continuous electronic display providing for an electronic display panel bridging between adjacent non-coplanar electronic display sections to provide for continuous non-interrupted alphanumeric or graphic informational display.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2001Date of Patent: May 4, 2004Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.Inventor: Bradley Jon VanderTuin
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Patent number: 6698121Abstract: A method and apparatus for integrating an illuminated sign system with a dasher board in a hockey rink. The illuminated sign system includes an outer frame with an impact resistant transparent sheet secured to a front surface of the outer frame. The sign system includes a display panel member having a white front surface and a plurality of apertures therein. The display panel member includes a circuit board assembly having a plurality of LED trios positioned proximate the rear surface of the display panel member so that LED trios register and protrude through a corresponding aperture in the display panel member. The illuminated sign system includes a power supply and a controller for controlling the power supplied to specific LEDs in each of the LED trios. In addition, the controller controls the intensity emitted by the LEDs to thereby manipulate the color contrast with the white front surface of the display panel member.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2001Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: Young Electric Sign Co.Inventors: Rodney D. Wardle, Todd M. Stih, John Williams, Kenneth Roostee, Graham Beland, Blake Gover, Todd W. Orme, Geoffrey W. Bickel, Laurence Kiyoshi Ishida
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Patent number: 6692138Abstract: An apparatus which provides a substantially planar display device. Such apparatus including a predetermined plurality of sets of lights. Each of such predetermined plurality of sets of lights including an even number of lights connected to one circuit to be simultaneously energized thereby. The lights in such set being disposed in a substantially symmetrical array having at least four mirror axes and an energization device connected to such predetermined plurality of such sets of lights for energizing BP predetermined plurality of such sets of lights in an apparently random manner.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Todd E. Chornenky
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Publication number: 20040016156Abstract: A message sign includes a panel having a plurality of ribs each defining an interior channel. The plurality of ribs are preferably spaced apart in parallel relationship. At least one lamp is secured through an opening in at least one of the ribs. In one preferred embodiment, the message sign includes a first and second panel, each preferably including a base web, wherein the ribs of the first and second panels extend outwardly from the base web of the respective panels. The base webs of the first and second panels are abutted with the ribs thereof extending outwardly therefrom in opposite directions. The first and second panels are oriented such that at least some of the channels of the first panel cross at least some of the channels of the second panel and form a plurality of junctures of crossing channels. Preferably, at least one lamp is secured through an opening in at least one of the plurality of ribs at one of the junctures. A method of manufacturing a message sign is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2002Publication date: January 29, 2004Inventors: Mark Fernandez, Carl L. Erwin