Illuminated Patents (Class 40/452)
  • Patent number: 6677918
    Abstract: LED image display system with rigid frames positioned in at least one vertical stack forming a planar vertical display, with vertical rigid bar members mounted to each of the frames and with equal spacing, and LED pixels mounted to each bar member. The pixels are equally spaced apart forming a matrix of pixels that project colored light beams. A rod bearing weight of the frames in tension is connected to each of the frames, and the rods have top and bottom connectors. Top connector of top frame is removably secured to an overhead support while bottom frame is spaced from stage or other surface. Bottom ring connector of weight-bearing rod of each stacked frame is removably connected to top hook connector of each below stacked frame. Each weight-bearing rod includes rod portions threadably connected to a turnbuckle for tightly positioning all adjoining frames of the stack; and system includes controls receiving video signals and processing same as either still color images and/or color animated images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventors: Yuji Yuhara, Hiroyuki Kodama
  • Publication number: 20040003523
    Abstract: The present invention provides a battery powered, hand-held signaling device having an illuminated display capable of selectively displaying illuminated indicia including the words “STOP”, “SLOW” and “GO”. The illuminated indicia are preferably color-coded, whereby the word “STOP” is displayed in illuminated red letters, the word “GO” is displayed in illuminated green letters, and the word “SLOW” is illuminated in yellow letters thereby maximizing recognition by an observer, such as the driver of an approaching vehicle. Selection of a particular message to be displayed is accomplished by user actuation of suitable electrical switching circuitry. In alternate embodiments, the device may be adapted for displaying a host of other illuminated messages, such as “TURN RIGHT,” “TURN LEFT,” “PARK,” etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Inventor: Eric Spencer
  • Patent number: 6651365
    Abstract: Apparatus for producing a continuous animated display of one or more images within a single display frame space utilizing sequenced illumination patterns or arrays of groups of optical fibers for illuminating each of a plurality of sub-frame images in a pre-programmed, timed sequence to achieve one or more animation techniques imparting continuous animated motion to the one or more images for producing the desired animated motion on a planar surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: ANI-Motion, Inc.
    Inventor: Harry L. Wainwright
  • Patent number: 6637907
    Abstract: A restaurant menu more easily read in reduced ambient lighting by the added lighting provided by LEDs which are battery operated when a circuit is completed through the hands of a patron in gripping engagement with the edge of the menu, a hand position known to be assumed preparatory to reading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Jacqueline Levy
  • Patent number: 6634124
    Abstract: An electronic sign display having an internal infrared communication system, includes a plurality of display panels each of which includes an infrared receiver and an infrared transmitter for passage of data information. The display panels slidingly align along a front panel. Each display panel is linked to an adjacent display panel by an infrared data link, and information received therefrom is displayed upon the appropriate display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel J. Bierschbach
  • Publication number: 20030167666
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel lighting display system for numerous uses. Consisting of the following members. An enclosure with a transparent front face, containing a channel along its length for locating and retaining an assembly of circuit boards with alphanumeric characters. The circuit boards have light emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged to form alphanumeric characters. The circuit board characters are connected electrically in series or parallel and can be arranged to form an illuminated message, word, or series of numerals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Richard A. Close
  • Patent number: 6588132
    Abstract: A light emitting portion is formed in such a manner that LED chips 2 are provided on the one ends of the leads 1 for the respective segments of a numeral which is a part of a display image. A reflecting case in which light conducting portions are provided so as to correspond to the parts of the display image is formed so that the LED chips are encircled by the respective light conducting portions. Light permeable resin 4 is filled in the reflecting case so that the interior of the reflecting case 3 and the one ends of the plurality of leads are fixed. An uneven portion is formed at least a portion of an outer peripheral side wall of the reflecting case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Rohm Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazuyoshi Tsuji
  • Publication number: 20030106247
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Applicant: AGON-TECH. CORPORATION
    Inventor: Chiao-Sheng Huang
  • Patent number: 6553285
    Abstract: A message conveying system for motor vehicles that allows a person operating a vehicle to display one of a plurality of messages to other motorists including a message display adapted for positioning within a motor vehicle adjacent to a rear window thereof. The message display includes an alphanumeric screen disposed therein. The message display includes an internal message memory therein for storing a plurality of alphanumeric messages therein. The internal message memory is in communication with the alphanumeric screen. The message display includes an internal message selection control in communication with the internal message memory. A remote control unit is adapted for securement to a dashboard of the motor vehicle. The remote control unit is in communication with the message display. The remote control unit includes a plurality of message buttons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Reslan Bahmad
  • Publication number: 20030046838
    Abstract: A sign assembly 10 that implements electronic paper to display an animated image. The sign assembly includes a controller 12, a power supply 14, a pair of substantially transparent, electrically conductive sheets 16, 18, and a sheet of electronic paper 24, which is sandwiched between sheets 16, 18. Image layers 20, 22 are imprinted on the sheets 16, 18, or are alternatively held frictionally adjacent to sheets 16, 18 by a frame assembly 56. Image layers 20, 22 include substantially transparent regions 36, 38, 40 and 42 in which sheet 24 is visible. The conductive sheets 16, 18 are connected to controller 12 which provides an electronic signal which is varied over time resulting in the display of an animated or changing image which may be visible when viewed from one or both sides of the sign assembly 10.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventor: Charles O'Connell
  • Patent number: 6511207
    Abstract: The present invention is a device that functions as a letter display panel 1. The display panel 1 is a body 2 that is a relatively thin piece of material having front and rear surfaces 4 and 6 with an edge 5 that extends between the front and rear surfaces, 4 and 6. In a preferred embodiment, a kit having a plurality of identical display panels 1 is provided for use with ornamental light strings. Each separate display panel 1 is capable of forming an individual lighted letter when used with the ornamental light string, as will be described below. The separate display panels 1 may be then coupled together to form written messages and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventors: Jamie A. Limber, Brian R. Freeland, Daniel J. Dick
  • Patent number: 6491395
    Abstract: An image reproducing apparatus having a small size and which is highly portable reproduces an image contained within a hologram or holographic stereogram. In one embodiment, when a movable section movably attached to an apparatus body is moved from a first position, in which the movable section abuts the apparatus body, to a second position in which the movable section and apparatus body are separated, illumination light from a light source is irradiated at a predetermined incidence angle onto a hologram or holographic stereogram attached to a hologram attach section. In other embodiments, light from a light source is reflected from an edge portion of a light transmitting member, or from a separately provided mirror, to be irradiated at a predetermined angle onto the hologram or holographic stereogram.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Akira Shirakura, Seijiro Tomita, Toshio Kikuchi, Toshio Iribe, Nobuhiro Kihara
  • Patent number: 6488494
    Abstract: A candle holder includes a housing having a mounting mechanism for mounting a candle to the housing. A display is connected to the housing for selectively displaying one of a plurality of numbers thereon, whereby the candle holder can be re-used for different occasions, such as birthdays and anniversaries, having different numbers associated therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Joy World, Inc.
    Inventor: Seungsoo Lee
  • Publication number: 20020162256
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventors: Rodney D. Wardle, Todd M. Stih, John Williams, Kenneth Roostee, Graham Beland, Blake Gover, Todd W. Orme, Geoffrey W. Bickel, Laurence Kiyoshi Ishida
  • Patent number: 6384877
    Abstract: An improved monitor for sports stadiums consisting of a module, which adopts a flat parallelepiped shape, and is fitted on its front side with a display screen, The module is supported by a structure comprising a frame, a base and two shock absorbers mounted between the base and frame to permit backward movement of the frame upon impact. The display screen is based on light emitting diode (LED) technology suitable for displaying moving images and advertisements, covered by a polycarbonate sheet, and contains a hemispherical protrusion that is fitted around each of the light points formed by the light emitting diodes. The shock absorbers are adjustable via holes in the base and frame and there is a handle and latch to permit easy transport of the monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignees: International Sports Organization, S.A., Odeo Electronica, S.A.
    Inventors: Marcelino Socias Batet, Sergio Campoy Odena
  • Publication number: 20020026736
    Abstract: The present invention provides a battery powered, hand-held signaling device having an illuminated display capable of selectively displaying illuminated indicia including the words “STOP”, “SLOW” and “GO”. The illuminated indicia are preferably color-coded, whereby the word “STOP” is displayed in illuminated red letters, the word “GO” is displayed in illuminated green letters, and the word “SLOW” is illuminated in yellow letters thereby maximizing recognition by an observer, such as the driver of an approaching vehicle. Selection of a particular message to be displayed is accomplished by user actuation of suitable electrical switching circuitry. In alternate embodiments, the device may be adapted for displaying a host of other illuminated messages, such as “TURN RIGHT,” “TURN LEFT,” “PARK,” etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Publication date: March 7, 2002
    Inventor: Eric Spencer
  • Patent number: 6348905
    Abstract: An LED display apparatus includes an LED display module, an inner frame member, and a supporting unit. The LED display module has an array of light emitting diodes mounted thereon, and a longitudinal axis. The inner frame member is disposed to confine the LED display module therein, and has a size sufficient to permit movement of the LED display module in opposite directions of the longitudinal axis. The supporting unit mounts the LED display module in the inner frame member such that the LED display module is movable back and forth in the inner frame member along the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Dynascan Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Tsun-I Wang
  • Publication number: 20020002783
    Abstract: A variable image-displaying member having an opaque substrate having a front surface which is observed by an observer, and a back surface opposing the front surface, and a plurality of pixel elements which are arranged on the front surface of the substrate in the row directions and the column directions which are perpendicular to the row directions. Each pixel element comprises a fixed part having the first fixed face which is fixed to the front surface of the substrate, the second fixed face adjacent to the first fixed surface, and a border line between the first fixed face and the second fixed face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Publication date: January 10, 2002
    Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties Copany
    Inventors: Yoshinori Araki, Takiguchi Shigeyuki
  • Patent number: 6314669
    Abstract: 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, having side-by-side display module/nested frame assemblies which include outer and inner nested frameworks, fine mesh screen, display circuit boards with LED character block displays, and driver circuit boards, 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: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne R. Tucker
  • Publication number: 20010037591
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment of the invention, an outdoor sign has a plurality of display modules, each hermetically sealed, for forming a hermetically sealed large sign screen. Each module is preferably formed of a lightweight plastic enclosure with an open interior containing circuitry and light emitting diodes. Means for minimizing deflection of the front panel are incorporated into the enclosure. One such means includes a single restrictive vent for pressure equalization to minimize deflection of the face portion. The means also includes an internal diaphragm to maintain the integrity of the hermetic seal. A feature and advantage of the invention is that moisture and other containments are effectively precluded from entry into the chamber containing the circuitry and LED's of the display sign.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventors: Timothy J. Nicholson, John P. Nicholson, Gordon M. Melby, Steve J. McHenry, Paul C. Freeberg
  • Patent number: 6282824
    Abstract: A display device, in particular in a motor bus, has at least one display field and fasteners for releasably securing the display field in the motor bus. An observation window is arranged at least between the display field and a viewer. In order to make the fastening of the display device less complicated and less expensive and in order to reduce the weight, the dimensions and the costs of the display device at the same time, the fasteners are releasably secured directly to the inner side of the observation window, the inner side facing away from the viewer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Evobus GmbH Corporation
    Inventors: Barbara Noll, Helmut Nahrgang
  • Patent number: 6272778
    Abstract: Display element for an electromagnetic display device comprising a frame and a disc mounted to the frame for pivoting of the disc about a pivoting axis, the disc having two differently colored sides, an ON-side the color of which contrasts against the background color of the frame and an OFF-side having a non-contrasting color. An electromagnetic drive system drives the disc from a first operating position where its ON-side is directed towards the main viewing direction to a second operating position where its OFF-side is directed towards the viewing direction. The drive system comprises a permanent magnet attached to the disc and an electromagnet attached to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Lite Vision, Inc
    Inventor: Joseph Tang
  • Patent number: 6249998
    Abstract: A two-dimensional display provides a virtual image of characters and figures that is produced by moving a body equipped with luminous devices and controlling the flashing position and time of each luminous device while moving the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Inventor: Yoshiro NakaMats
  • Patent number: 6237290
    Abstract: A high-rise building with a large scale dot-matrix display device is disclosed. The glass panels arranged in rows and columns form a curtain wall structured transparent outer wall 12 extending over an exterior of a building 10. Each panel is installed apart from end portions of floor slabs to form a void space therebetween. A plurality of louver structured modules 22 are arranged within the void space in rows and columns to form a large scale display area. Each module 22 has a louver-like structure formed of a plurality of posts 24 arranged in substantially parallel relationship and a plurality of parallel, uniformly spaced beams 26 connecting said adjacent posts 24. A plurality of LED combination lamps 28 are mounted on each beam 26 at uniform pitches as those between the adjacent beams 26. The LEDs are driven by drive circuits disposed in each beam 26. The vertical guide members 44 are fixed to the end portions of the floor slabs 20.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignees: Avix Inc., Qfront Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toyotaro Tokimoto, Masatoshi Oishi
  • Patent number: 6216370
    Abstract: A sign having a changeable array constituted by a plurality of pivotally mounted disks which have opposite bright and dark surfaces. The bright surface of each disk is illuminated by an adjacent light emitter when positioned in a direction of viewing. Light from each light emitter is blocked from illuminating disks other than the adjacent disk in the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Mark IV Industries Limited
    Inventor: Veso S. Tijanic
  • Patent number: 6209243
    Abstract: A display element includes a disk which rotates preferably through 160°-180° to display a bright or a dark side in a viewing direction in ON and OFF positions respectively. A constantly on LED is arranged to illuminate the disk in ON position for viewing in a first arc including the viewing direction. The disk masks the LED to viewers in the OFF position of the disk. In addition to light from the illuminated disks, the components may be arranged so that viewers over a second arc may view the LED directly when the disk is in ON position. The elements may be arranged in arrays to form a changeable sign. Thus the array may be made up of single elements, of columns of such elements or of a combination of elements and columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Mark IV Industries Limited
    Inventor: Veso S. Tijanic
  • Patent number: 6132060
    Abstract: A lighted push pin is provided that is a relatively low cost device which will perform all of the traditional functions of push pins while providing a superior capability to draw attention to specific items or highlight specific information through the use of illumination. Illumination is provided by an on-board battery that powers a light generating device such as a light bulb or light emitting diode. Another embodiment of the invention utilizes a chemical light source. Thus, the invention has eliminated any need for electrified boards or external sources of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Anthony Richard Gallo
  • Patent number: 6101750
    Abstract: A changeable portable, solar powered message sign is disclosed which offers reduced power consumption and enhanced visibility to intended observers especially during the difficult hours about dawn and dusk. The system features character matrices and two independent types of pixel defining systems. The system also includes an automatic solar tracking and control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Power Engineering & Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Blesener, Amir Amighi
  • Patent number: 6058634
    Abstract: Light emitting artwork that includes a printed circuit board, at least one least one LED disposed on the printed circuit board, a surface material disposed on the printed circuit board and having an image thereon that together with the at least one LED produce customized light emitting artwork, and a backboard displaced from the printed circuit board. The at least one LED is at least one tri-color LED connected in parallel with each other and with a programmable logic control circuit and with a DC power source having a polarity, with a current limiting resister connected in series with each of the at least one tri-color LED.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: James C. McSpiritt
  • Patent number: 6000812
    Abstract: An array of disks faces a viewing direction is composed of disk's rotatable about an axis approximately perpendicular to the viewing direction between alternating orientations where bright and dark sides are respectively displayed in the viewing direction. There is provided a row of LED's located forwardly of the array and out of the normal viewing path located to illuminate the disks of said array. Masking means prevents direct illumination from said LED's being visible in the viewing direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Mark IV Industries Limited
    Inventors: Timothy A. Freeman, Veso S. Tijanic
  • Patent number: 5996263
    Abstract: An improved internally illuminated display apparatus for displaying indicia at a front of the apparatus. The invention is comprised of a light source for providing internal illumination to the display. A plurality of axles are connected to the light source to transfer the light emitted from the source to a plurality of light emitting locations located along the length of the axle. Display elements are rotationally connected to the axles at the light emitting locations and include display faces that may be rotated to produce an image on the front face of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: ReaderVision, Inc.
    Inventor: F. Martin Black
  • Patent number: 5909971
    Abstract: A display element has a disk which rotates on an axis to show its bright or dark side in the viewing direction. When the bright side is showing the disk allows passage of light from an LED. When the dark side is showing the disk masks the light from the LED. Preferably, an opaque shroud surrounds the LED and projects a short distance forwardly thereof to help define the cone in which light from the LED may be viewed in ON position. A side wall of said element projects forwardly of the rotation axis to mask the escape of light on that side transverse to the viewing direction. A second side wall may be placed on the other side for the same purpose or the adjacent element may provide the second wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Assignee: Mark IV Industries Limited
    Inventor: Veso S. Tijanic
  • Patent number: 5901483
    Abstract: A display element includes a disk which rotates through 160.degree.-180.degree. to display a bright or a dark side in a viewing direction in ON and OFF positions respectively A constantly on LED is arranged to illuminate the disk in ON position for viewing in a first arc including the viewing direction. The disk masks the LED to viewers in the OFF position of the disk. In addition to light from the illuminated disks, the components may be arranged so that viewers over a second arc may view the LED directly when the disk is in ON position. The elements may be arranged in arrays to form a changeable sign. Thus the array may be made up of single elements, of columns of such elements or of a combination of elements and columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Mark IV Industries Limited
    Inventor: Veso S. Tijanic
  • Patent number: 5819454
    Abstract: A display device in which the grid formed by rectangular reflector elements has each element divided by at least one diagonal into at least two triangular reflectors at the base of which at least one light source is provided and which is closed by a respective diffuser. The diffusers are held in place by light-tight settings surrounding the diffusers. The result is a display with a particularly high definition capable of proportional display of alphanumeric characters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Harald Rosenitsch
  • Patent number: 5809676
    Abstract: A plurality of sign display units are arranged adjacent to each other along at least one surface in order to form a convex or concave arc curved surface curved with a predetermined radius. In each sign display unit, light-emitting elements are arranged in a dot matrix so as to be able to display a kanji character, a high-quality alpha-numeric character close to a printing type, or an image, thus displaying desired sign information. The sign display unit provides good readability while its visual field angle is increased without degrading the display quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Copal Company Limited
    Inventors: Katsuyuki Sukumoda, Tatsuya Okonogi, Yukio Yoshikawa
  • Patent number: 5791966
    Abstract: A rotating object, such as a toy top or yo-yo, is provided with a display mechanism which permits the display of letters, number and graphics as the object moves. In one embodiment a toy top is taught which incorporates such a display made up of string of light emitting diodes. As the top is spun a switch is closed by centrifugal force which activates the display circuitry. A message previously stored in the display circuitry memory is then read out of memory and is used to control the illumination of the LED's. As the top reaches a revolutionary speed which is in synchronization with the clocking speed of the display, the message is viewable by the user, and remains viewable until the rotational speed of the top slows enough to defeat the visual synchronization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Noise Toys, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen P. Capps, Raymond H. DuFlon
  • Patent number: 5771616
    Abstract: A display element has a disk which rotates on an axis to show its bright or dark side in the viewing direction. When the bright side is showing the disk allows passage of light from an LED. When the dark side is showing the disk masks the light from the LED. Preferably, an opaque shroud surrounds the LED and projects a short distance forwardly thereof to help define the cone in which light from the LED may be viewed in ON position. A side wall or said element projects forwardly of the rotation axis to mask the escape of light on that side transverse to the viewing direction. A second side wall may be placed on the other side for the same purpose or the adjacent element may provide the second wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: Mark IV Industries Limited
    Inventor: Veso S. Tijanic
  • Patent number: 5722192
    Abstract: A mounted display is set forth comprising a central housing, a CPU within the housing along with a power supply and two memories. One memory stores an operating system while another memory, removable in form, stores a pattern to be displayed. A display strip provided with LCD or LED elements is powered to thereby provide illumination. A protective transparent tube and Velcro fasteners are used to secure the device on the person or user. The display is worn around the user as a belt or around a cap or hat. Another form comprises a jacket or vest mounted display for the back of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Inventor: Sybil Salley
  • Patent number: 5715619
    Abstract: The disclosure herein describes an information displaying traffic sign which comprises a board, the front side of which is formed of dusters of LED devices. Visors are mounted to the front of the board, each visor being provided with an opening on its top face so that vertical air circulation along the front side of the board may be permitted to cool the LED devices. Shades are provided, adjacent to each visor opening, to prevent sun rays from reaching the LED devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Groupe Infocite Inc.
    Inventors: Alexandre Polisois, Daniel Chevalier
  • Patent number: 5636462
    Abstract: A message display sign apparatus includes a display panel having front and rear faces, a multiplicity of light emitting elements disposed on the front face of the display panel for displaying a built-in message on the display panel being defined by groups thereof being arranged to form the letters of the two words, a mounting panel having upper and lower faces, and a hinge pivotally interconnecting an edge of the display panel to an edge of the mounting panel such that the display panel and mounting panel can undergo pivotal movement relative to one another between a message display position in which the rear face of the display panel is angularly displaced away from the upper face of the mounting panel and a storage position in which the rear face of the display panel is disposed adjacent to the upper face of the mounting panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventor: Robert M. Kleiman
  • Patent number: 5555163
    Abstract: A miniature light string display container for selectively displaying a plurality of light bulbs of a miniature light string in a desired arrangement, including a container with a front display panel having an array of regularly spaced mounting openings therethrough, which openings are sized for securely receiving light bulbs of a light string at least partially therethrough in a desired arrangement or pattern which is selectable on the array of mounting openings. The display container also includes a reversibly openable entry panel with a closed position and an open position, in which open position a rear surface of the display panel may be accessed. Electrical connection wire is extendable through the display container, when closed, for connecting the string of lights to an electrical power source, so that the pattern of inserted light bulbs is illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Inventor: Richard R. Pisani
  • Patent number: 5503533
    Abstract: A multiple pump, multiple tank fluid control system incorporates a programmable processor which communicates with an operator input/output control panel which can be switched between each member of the plurality of tanks. Pump on and off levels for a selected tank can be readily set electronically using control switches on the control panel. On and off levels for different pumps can be nested readily by the operator to provide multiple pump capacity as deemed desirable by the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Assignee: Metropolitan Pump Company
    Inventors: Richard Potter, Jeffrey A. Reichard
  • Patent number: 5390093
    Abstract: Disclosed is an illuminating display device for use with a mosaic panel, in which necessary display devices, measuring instruments, and the like are mounted to a crosswise-shaped metallic grid, to form a panel surface, and on which light-emitting diodes are arranged at a high density to afford a high-luminance display surface. The illuminating display device prevents the display surface and the interior of the display device from increasing in temperature to high due to heat generated by a large number of light-emitting diodes. The whole illuminating display device is composed of a base frame (4) mountable to and removable from the grid, and a circuit board (5) and a reflector (6) to be mounted on the base frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Assignee: K.C.C. Shokai Limited
    Inventors: Tomiharu Himeno, Shoji Kohsaka
  • Patent number: 5324224
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a hollow globe including a plurality of apertures which are formed substantially throughout the entire surface of the globe. Formed within the globe and disposed in laminar juxtaposition to the interior surface of the globe's sphere, a bladder means is formed of an opaque flexible material. A plurality of cross slits are formed on the bladder in substantial alignment with the globe's surface. An internal light source is disposed within said bladder at approximately the midpoint of the globe's sphere, and a plurality of luminescent pegs are provided for insertion into the apertures formed in the globe's surface. The present invention provides the user with the plurality of luminescent, differently colored pegs to design a picture or art form. The present invention may additionally serve as a night light and the luminescent pegs may be specially adapted to project light from the interior of the globe's surface to the exterior of the globe and onto surrounding walls and ceilings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Inventors: Richard H. Anderson, Robert R. Anderson, Richard R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5313729
    Abstract: An LED display unit comprises a printed circuit board. A plurality of LEDs are packaged on the printed circuit board. Portions of the respective LEDs except for light emitting sections thereof are sealed by a resin. The LEDs having the portions thereof sealed by the resin are received in a case. A plurality of the cases are arranged on the attaching plate, to form a large-sized display panel. The case has a rear face thereof which is brought to a configuration in which spaces exist between the attaching plate and portions of the case except for a fixing portion thereof to the attaching plate and a connector for wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroo Sakai, Shingo Otobe, Hideo Tamura, Toshimi Kamikawa
  • Patent number: 5192944
    Abstract: A display device has a front panel including a solar battery on its surface. At least one window is formed in the solar battery to permit viewing a character formed in the front panel. Energy produced by the solar battery is stored in a storage battery for illuminating light emitting devices situated behind the front panel. The illumination provides background lighting for characters in the window of the front panel. Another embodiment of the invention uses a solar battery with an illuminated layer behind the front panel on which characters are displayed by either removing unwanted segments of a pre-formed character on the front panel or by adding segments of the characters with masking material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1993
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masatoshi Otsuki, Yasuyoshi Kawanishi, Kenji Sawada, Yoshinori Kaido, Takayuki Mizumura, Masayoshi Maeba
  • Patent number: 5190214
    Abstract: A support member is arranged for the mounting of a mailbox therealong, wherein the support member includes a cementious anchor having a tubular PVC pipe extending upwardly thereof, with the tube member filled with the cementious material mounting a mailbox housing thereon. A modification of the invention includes an indicator housing mounted to the tubular member, with the indicator housing including opposed pivotally mounted doors having apertures directed therethrough to receive opaque plugs, wherein the doors are of a transparent construction and the opaque plugs effect a message through the door structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Inventor: Richard J. Dewailly
  • Patent number: 5167508
    Abstract: An electronic book apparatus that comprises multiple pages with printed information, visual signal means for identifying the printed information in a sequentially organized manner, synchronized audio signal means for describing or further identifying the information concurrently with the visual signal means, and electromechanical or photo-sensitive means for electronically controlling the generation and transmission of these signals when each particular page is opened for viewing. Each page of the electronic book includes a laminated sheet, on which the printed material is arranged, and an electronic backdrop containing the visual signal means for display through the laminated sheet. Separate intelligent electronic means in the spine and top portion of the book, coupled to the electrical or photo-sensitive means, activate the illuminating circuitry and a voice synthesizer that are synchronized and sequenced to produce a concurrent visual and audio enhancement of the printed matter being viewed on the page.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1992
    Inventor: Stephen I. Mc Taggart
  • Patent number: 5050325
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a display device with a movable element. The movable element is driven between ON and OFF positions by switching the polarity of a first high remanence magnetic core. A reed switch is located in the flux path of the switchable magnetic core and of a second magnetic core such that the reed switch assumes open and closed states. The reed switch is connected so that one state turns on or exposes a light source and the other state turns off or masks the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1991
    Assignee: Dayco Products Canada, Inc.
    Inventor: John Browne
  • Patent number: 5043716
    Abstract: An electronic display includes a matrix of LEDs mounted to a circuit board and selectively operated to produce a message or image. A reflector matrix mounts to the circuit board and provides light pipes which extend forward from each LED to direct its light and provide protection. Potting compound is disposed in each light pipe and extends beyond the reflector matrix to provide a convex lens. In one embodiment the potting compound extends into a convex lens cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Assignee: Adaptive Micro Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Latz, Thomas J. Mandler, Jason C. S. Lai