Abstract: A luminaire with signage endcaps includes a luminaire housing and one or more light emitting elements. The housing typically includes a top member and multiple side members extending down from the top member. The top and side members define the interior of the luminaire housing. Light emitting elements are coupled to the housing. These light emitting elements generally emit light downward from the luminaire and can be coupled along the interior of the housing or positioned along an exterior side of one or more of the side members. A stencil or stencil plate can be positioned along or coupled to one or more others side members. The stencil and stencil plate include openings in the shape of alphanumeric symbols and/or ideograms and include within the openings or have positioned adjacent to the openings a translucent member. Ambient light within the interior of the housing illuminates the stencil and translucent member.

Abstract: A concept for reducing the distance between LED lamps and illuminated surface to produce high-brightness signs is disclosed. Currently, most electric-signs place LED modules at the cabinet enclosure base. Since enclosures are deep, surface illumination from LEDs drops significantly. LEDs are therefore driven at high currents for adequate brightness, degrading their lifetime. This invention reduces the gap G between LEDs and the sign-face, increasing surface illumination exponentially. Another benefit: light forwarded from LEDs produces no heat! No frontal thermal management is needed and a small G suffices. However, LEDs produce heat at the back, requiring thermal management. By placing LEDs closer to the sign-face, the distance increases between LEDs and the base, allowing for air flow and heat-sinking room. The proposed method increases LED-module density by overlapping two modules on a grid-node; these modules are mutually orthogonal, while both are orthogonal to the surface-normal.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an improved billboard system and method of use thereof. One or more vertical axis wind turbines (VAWT) are mounted onto the top portions of posts supporting new or previously constructed billboards. The vertical axis wind turbines, which are configured to rotate regardless of the direction of the wind, generate electrical power that is used to provide the power needs of lighting display elements (lights, screens, etc.) found on the billboard. The turbines are also used to charge batteries that may later be used to supply power to the billboard during periods when the turbines do not generate sufficient power or when one or more of the turbines are not operational. Surplus power not used to power the display elements or charge the batteries may be transmitted to the utility power grid. The billboard system may be monitored and controlled from a remote location via a communications network.

Abstract: A lighted display for mounting upon a vehicle having a trailer hitch receiver. The lighted display includes an elongated base member with a trailer hitch mount affixed midway along the base member. The base member also incorporates a horizontal step plate extending outward from upper edge of the base member allowing easier access to the rear of the vehicle. The base member is configured to receive multiple lighting elements within an elongated vertical channel. The lighting elements are connected to a trailer wiring plug which is configured to engage the vehicles trailer wiring connector. A message board is positioned within the vertical channel of the base member. The message board is made of a semi-translucent material which allows a portion of the light from the lighting elements to pass. The message board is partially masked with an opaque material, the unmasked portions forming the desired message for display.

Abstract: An illuminated sign for various electronic devices comprising: a plurality of LED lights on a first side, where the lights provide a customized display; an adhesive backing on a second side, where the backing provides a means to attach the sign to an external panel; a means to supply power to the plurality of LED lights; and an internet connection, where a user submits design requirements prior to installing the sign. The customized display may include at least one of a sign depicting text, a logo or other artistic design. In one particular embodiment, the input means for customizing the sign are accessible via an internet connection.

Abstract: The Invention is an apparatus for displaying a medallion in an item of memorabilia. The item of memorabilia defines a cavity. A holder is configured to be contained within the cavity and defines a medallion-receiving opening selectably receiving the medallion. The holder contains an LED lamp oriented generally parallel to the display surface of the medallion. The LED lamp causes the relief of the medallion to cast a shadow on the display surface of the medallion. The lustrous metal of the medallion reflects light from the relief to an observer.

Abstract: An emergency exit indicator includes a flat housing and a light source received in the housing. The housing has a length greater than a width thereof. The housing includes a panel provided with a sign thereon to indicate emergency exit. The light source includes a plurality of LEDs each being covered by a lens. Light of the LED goes through the lens and is then illuminated on the sign to cause the sign to be visible. The lens has two opposite sides along a lengthwise direction of the housing longer than other two opposite sides along a widthwise direction of the housing, such that the light through the lens along the widthwise direction of the housing is converged in a narrower manner than the light through the lens along the lengthwise direction of the housing.

Abstract: 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).

Abstract: A modular LED light-emitting marker having a pedestal with a back side, a light-emitting marking side and a holding space. At least a LED circuit board is accommodated into the holding space of the pedestal. The LED circuit board contains a LED setup surface, which faces the light-emitting marking side of the pedestal. The LED circuit board also contains an electrical connecting line penetrating out of the pedestal. A waterproof cladding is assembled between the LED circuit board and the pedestal, and used to fully seal the LED circuit board. A reflecting surface is set onto the light-emitting marking side of the pedestal. The reflecting surface is provided with LED through-holes. A protruding LED unit is arranged onto the LED setup surface The exterior of the protruding LED unit is protruded out of the waterproof cladding and reflecting surface.

Abstract: A frame with removable sign has a rectangular opaque housing, a translucent cover, two parallel rails spaced apart upon the longitudinal edges of the cover and a stile connecting to the ends of the rails upon one lateral edge of the cover, a face panel sliding over the cover where the face panel includes various indicia, and magnets and adhesive for non-mechanical securement of the sign. The face panel sliding engages the cover and remains in place using friction or a mechanical means. The face panel has its indicia as transparent upon an opaque background. The housing also includes an embodiment capable of attachment to a vehicle. The frame with removable sign fits upon a housing that suspends from a window, door, fence rail, or other linear shape.

Abstract: A back-lit vehicle emblem is disclosed, that provides an emblem body having a front side facing away from the vehicle and exhibiting the emblem and having a rear side facing toward the vehicle. The body is shaped to provide at least a partial housing for mounting at least one LED. A space between the body and the vehicle when the body is mounted upon the vehicle is provided.

Abstract: Method and apparatus provide for attaching a planar electroluminescent lamp unit to the side of a billboard, and providing a media adhered to the surface of the lamp unit and to the side of the billboard adjacent the lamp unit, wherein the media has advertising indicia printed thereon. The lamp unit is connected to a source of power on the billboard.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for producing a transparent object that attracts a viewer's attention. At least some of the object surface facing the viewer is illuminated by means of an illumination source that irradiates a bottom surface of the object, said bottom surface facing away from the viewer. The disclosed method is characterized in that the object is provided with a surface that is reflective in incident light.

Abstract: The present invention is a safety kick plate device and improved manufacturing thereof. The safety kick plate device includes a base component including a communication element through which a light emission component is visible. A communication protection element provides reinforcement and strength to the communication element as well as mitigates damage to the light emission component.

Abstract: An invisible, light-transmissive display system with a light resistant material is provided. Substantially invisible holes penetrate through at least a portion of the light resistant material in a predetermined light-transmissive display pattern.

Abstract: A readily modifiable modular sign apparatus is especially useful for use as easily changed advertisement media such as in department stores and retail stores. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a preferably translucent substrate or mounting board which is preferably planar and has a front surface and a back surface. Precisely positioned holes are prepared at selected locations. These holes are formed to be aligned with thin metal shims which are affixed on the back surface of the mounting board and receive cylindrical magnets on the front surface. The magnets are attached directly to the rear of printed sheets, each of which may have wording or pictorial information or both. The magnets contact the metal shims through the mounting board holes, and are held firmly in position by virtue of both the magnetic attractive force and the shape of the walls of the mounting board holes.

Abstract: A barrier for use in a barrier system is described. The barrier is movable to control access past the barrier, and said barrier comprises a media support means arranged to support a removable media to be displayed. The support means defines a media receiving path along which the media is movable to an inserted position in which the media is displayed.

Abstract: The invention relates to the provision of a toy and/or packaging and/or another item which includes a light illumination system to allow one or more features provided on at least one sheet of material provided as part of the item, to be rendered more viewable when the light sources are illuminated. The feature is formed on a surface of the sheet material and into the same, typically by etching or another material removal operation. Animated effects can be created by the sequential illumination of the light sources. Audio means can also be provided to be operated in conjunction with the light sources.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a decorative illumination signboard capable of effectively downwardly emitting light while suppressing an upward emission of light with a simple configuration and a plastic sheet used in the decorative illumination signboard. The object can be accomplished by a plastic sheet having optical transparency which includes an exit surface and an incident surface on which a plurality of prism lines having a flat and smooth surface are arranged to be aligned. A shape of the prism in a cross-section perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the prism line is formed by a side A on a lower side at an angle of ? degrees to a normal line of the exit surface and a side B on an upper side at an angle of ? degrees to the normal line of the exit surface and ?<?, and 40 degrees???80 degrees.

Abstract: A readily modifiable modular sign apparatus is especially useful for fast food restaurants as backlighted menu boards in both indoor and outdoor applications. The apparatus comprises a preferably translucent substrate or mounting board which is preferably planar and has a front surface and a back surface. Precisely positioned holes are prepared at selected locations. These holes are formed to be aligned with thin metal shims which are affixed on the back surface of the mounting board and receive cylindrical magnets on the front surface. The magnets are attached directly to the rear of printed sheets, each of which may have wording or pictorial information or both. The magnets contact the metal shims through the mounting board holes, and are held firmly in position by virtue of both the magnetic attractive force and the shape of the walls of the mounting board holes.

Abstract: A traffic signal device includes a plurality of illuminatable light assemblies such as red amber and green used to control traffic flow. A transparent element configured to fit upon the outer surface of the lens of a light assembly supports one or more opaque numerals corresponding to vehicle speed limits. The transparent member baring the speed limit numerals is placed upon the outer surface of the traffic signal lens to impose the speed limit numerals upon the light emitted by the light assembly when illuminated.

Abstract: A display assembly includes a first display element which displays letters, numbers, and/or images when power is applied to it and which continues to display the letters, numbers and/or images after the power is no longer applied to it; and a second display element which only operates whilst power is applied to it. The first display element may be a cholesteric panel or a bistable nematic panel, or may use e-ink technology to display letters, numbers and/or images. The second display element may comprise one or more light sources such as LEDs.

Abstract: A system and method of presenting “one-to-one” advertising within a parking spot and a corresponding parking block display device is presented. The system and method comprise an illuminated advertisement message displayed and directed toward an associated vehicle parking spot, wherein the message comprises indicia corresponding to and tailored toward an intended recipient expected to park a vehicle in the vehicle parking spot. Moreover, the display device may be in the form of a parking block or wheel stop and, in at least one embodiment, includes a housing structured to define an at least partially hollow interior portion. The display device may further comprise an illumination assembly structured and positioned so as to direct a path of light to the exterior of the housing at least partially through one or more display members bearing the message or advertisement.

Abstract: A light fixture includes a base having at least one light source positioned therein, a lens removably mounted over the light source, and a display applied onto the lens for illumination by the light source. In example forms, the display takes the form of a cartoon character, a team logo, product merchandising text and/or graphics, branding materials, informational text or diagrams, patterns, artwork, or the like. Multiple lenses can be provided, each having a different display applied thereon, for interchangeable attachment to a common universal base.

Abstract: A plurality of lamp arrays (30A-30N) provide uniform lighting across the copy area of a billboard sign. The arrays (30) are arranged end-to-end horizontally along the length of the copy area. Each array (30) comprises a plurality of LEDs (34A-34N) and a plurality of lenses (36A-36M). The various lenses (36) direct and focus the light from the LEDs (34) at the various parts of the copy area so as to minimize dark and light spots. A “TOP” set of LEDs preferably illuminates the top part of the copy area, a “MIDDLE” set of LEDs preferably illuminates the middle of the copy area, and “FILLER” LEDs preferably serve to illuminate the bottom of the copy area. The lamp arrays are preferably mounted to a catwalk (14) at the bottom of the billboard.

Abstract: An illuminated point of sale sign is disclosed which includes a frame, a lighting system and a battery electrically connected to the lighting system, the lighting system and the battery being disposed within the frame, and a light sensor disposed outside the frame and electrically connected to the lighting system and the battery. The frame includes projections which define receptacle perimeters adapted to receive and accommodate existing real estate signs made of thin corrugated plastic or lexan.

Abstract: An illuminating display is arranged for support on a store shelf at the front edge thereof and features at least one illuminating display area activated by a light source and visible from a side of the display facing outward from the shelf to form an eye-catching visual display visible by browsing customers perusing the product content of the shelf. In preferred embodiments, the display is in the form of a strip dimension to fit within a price ticket channel of the shelf so as to facilitate easy and clean removal of the strip, avoid obstruction of the products displayed on the shelf and extend along the shelf to carry multiple display areas at spaced positions therealong. The display areas can present product or company names, logos or slogans, or other promotional or advertising content.

Abstract: A relatively thin printed LED backlight device with an integral diffuser may be integrated into an interior trim component using a molding process, such as injection molding, compression molding and reaction injection molding. The display portion may be placed behind a textile surface or molded grille or may form a portion of the outer surface of the trim component to provide light to low light areas of the vehicle. Electronic circuitry and components may be printed on to the substrate of the device as part of an in-line continuous process at the molding station to allow low inventory and customization of each backlight device.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods for displaying illuminated images. In some embodiments a light box is capable of receiving a wide variety of images, which may be changed as desired by a user. The light box may be framed independently for wall hanging or display on a stand, or incorporated within or attached to pieces of furniture, including but not limited to beds, dressers, changing tables, book shelves, chests of drawers, toy chests, and the like. In various embodiments, the light box may include a dimmer, a timed dimmer, a motion sensor, and/or equipment for playing music or generating white noise. In certain embodiments, a single light box may be used, while in other embodiments a plurality of light boxes and/or digital picture frames may be used.

Abstract: A bar gun having a configurable display is disclosed. The bar gun includes a housing portion having an internal cavity. A mixing mechanism is disposed in the internal cavity and is in fluid communication with a plurality of fluid lines. A spout having an opening is in fluid communication with the mixing mechanism to discharge fluid received from the mixing mechanism. The configurable display is coupled with the housing. The configurable display can include a display window and an illumination source configured to emit illumination to back light the display window. The configurable display can also include an electronic display.

Abstract: A light emitting display for generating a selectable character (number, letter or alphanumeric character) comprises a plurality of independently operable light emitting display elements (segments). Each display element comprises: a light guiding medium having a light emitting display face; at least one excitation source (LED) associated with the light guiding medium and independently operable to generate excitation light of a first wavelength range and couple the excitation light into the light guiding medium; and a pattern of at least one phosphor material provided on the light emitting surface and configured to define the light emitting element wherein the phosphor material absorbs at least a part of the excitation light and emits light of a second wavelength range. Each display element can comprise a discrete light guiding medium or display elements can be defined within a single light guiding medium by one or more light reflecting planes.

Abstract: An improved display is disclosed for a dispensing machine having a plurality of switches for dispensing a plurality of products. The improved display comprises a plurality of illuminators located in proximity to the plurality of switches. A decorative panel indicates the types of the plurality of products for dispensing by the dispensing machine. A mounting fixes the decorative panel for enabling the plurality of illuminators to illuminate the decorative panel. A control is connected to the plurality of switches for energizing the plurality of illuminators in response to an actuation of a selected one of the plurality of switches for indicating the dispensing of one of the plurality of products by the dispensing machine.

Abstract: An adapter (1) with at least one electronic component (2) for mounting in a hole (3) extending through or partly through a composite board (4), which includes at least two layers (5) of electrically conducting material that are separated by at least one insulator (6) of electrically insulating material, the adapter (1) including one or more legs (7) adapted for by mounting in the hole (2) to establish electric connection with a first layer (8), and where the at least one component (2) is fitted on a metal item (9) which has a contact surface, and that the contact surface is in electrically and thermally conducting connecting with a contact surface on a second layer (10) when the adapter (1) is mounted in the hole (3).

Abstract: A stand for a mobile device such as a cell phone or MP3 music player provides an A-frame support structure having a width sufficient to support the device, a front leg, a back leg and a top and bottom. A shelf projects out at approximately a right angle from the bottom front of the A-frame support for a distance sufficient to support the device. A device resting on the lip is lifted away from the surface of a table or bar and protected from fluid or detritus.

Abstract: A solar-powered lighting system includes a substrate, wherein at least one solar chip is disposed on one lateral side of the substrate, and at least one light source is disposed on one lateral side of the substrate. Solar light enters the substrate and propagates therein. Solar light energy is collected by the at least one solar chip which transforms the solar light energy into electrical power for the at least one light source to emit light to the substrate, before propagating therein and leaving the substrate.

Abstract: A transparent electrically-illuminated sign is disclosed. The transparent electrically-illuminated sign includes a first transparent board, a second transparent which is installed apart from the first transparent board at a certain distance, facing the first transparent board, a plurality of LEDs, a transparent electrode, a filling material which is transparent and filled between the transparent electrode and the second transparent board, and a controller. The transparent electrode is formed on one of both faces of the first transparent board as the transparent electrode is coated thereon, in which the face coated by the first transparent electrode faces the second transparent board. The transparent electrode forms at least more than one close circuit plate which is divided into a cathode plate and a plurality of anode plates. The cathode plate is connected by each cathode lead of the plurality of LEDs, which are separated from each other by a certain distance.

Abstract: A cover of an electronic device has a body inside and is penetrable by light yield from an illumination device. The body has an inner surface having a region impenetrable by light as a light-blocking region and the remaining region penetrable by light as a light-passing region. The body further has an outer surface having a region impenetrable by light as another light-blocking region and the remaining region penetrable by light as another light-passing region. The light-blocking region of the outer surface correspond to the light-passing region of the inner surface in shape, but in a size that is smaller, so that when light pass through the body, light can give an effect that the shape of the light-blocking region looks three-dimensional.

Abstract: An apparatus and method provides for managing solar power to a LED illumination device such as a street sign so that the power from a power storage device is monitored and variations in applied power to the LED device can be dynamically made to preserve power or increase power as appropriate. A controller may control the power management based on preprogrammed time periods, environmental factors, and solar availability. Historical tracking of available power may provide a basis for computing available power.

Abstract: A light box with at least three base profiles which in the assembled state form a closed base frame onto which a first tensible plane material to be illuminated can be fitted such that it forms the front side of the base frame, at least one illuminant which is disposed within the base frame in order to illuminate the light box, at least one power supply, in particular an electrical series connection unit in order to supply the illuminant with current, at least one supporting wall disposed on the rear side of the base frame which has at least one attachment for releasably fixing the illuminant and/or the electrical series connection unit within the base frame, the supporting wall being formed by a second tensible plane material which can be attached to the base frame such that it forms the rear side of the light box.

Abstract: A transparent signboard and a method for fabricating the same are provided. The transparent signboard includes: a transparent substrate; an electrode layer made of polymer or carbon nanotube and comprising a plurality of conducting parts separated from each other with respect to a predetermined pattern region interposed therebetween, and a non-conducting part formed on the predetermined pattern region and integrally formed with the conducting parts; and a light-emitting device configured to connect the separated conducting parts to each other.

Abstract: A message generating apparatus is disclosed. A message generating apparatus, comprising: a message generating panel, the message generating panel comprising a first layer and a second layer, the first layer comprising a first base substance and a first see-through pattern. a light transparency of the first see-through pattern being higher than a light transparency of the first base substance, the second layer comprising a second base substance and a second see-through pattern, a light transparency of the second see-through pattern being higher than a light transparency of the second base substance is provided. The message generating panel can be configured to generate a message by a light having passed through the first see-through pattern and the second see-through pattern. The first see-through pattern and the second see-through pattern can be configured to generate a plurality of messages according to an angle of the light incident to the message generating panel.

Abstract: A graphic design consists of graphic elements such as text, logos, images and texture. On the front surface of transparent substrate, a white translucent copy in the form of chosen graphic elements in the design (such as text) is applied, so when viewed from front is right-reading. The complete original graphic design is then applied in register onto the front surface, so that the parts of the design that were copied onto the front surface first come directly onto contact with that copy. A white copy in the form of the other areas (the graphic elements that were not copied onto the front) is applied onto the back of the substrate (i.e. the side facing away from the viewer) in register with the rest of the design (in reverse, so when viewed from front is right-reading). Further copies of this one may be applied behind it (i.e. on the back) to increase its opacity. A light-source is placed behind the substrate.

Abstract: An emergency exit indicating device includes an exit sign and a smoke dispelling system. The exit sign is configured for displaying where an emergency exit is located. The smoke dispelling system is configured for dispelling smoke from around the exit sign in the event of fire.

Abstract: An LED light bulb where the LED light bulb itself is molded into various shapes. The plastic lens used to surround the diode is shaped when manufactured to resemble various items, such as stars, crosses, hearts, trees, pinecones, bulbs, flat panels with designs, or any other shape the user desires. Because the entire light bulb is the LED, uniform and consistent light can be emitted from every part of the plastic lens that makes up the shaped LED light bulb, allowing the user to view the shaped LED light bulb from any angle. The shaped LED light bulb can be used individually, or strung together to form a strand of shaped lights.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a new and improved method and apparatus for a mobile aerodynamic illumination apparatus having a graphic and secured to an automobile the apparatus including a modular base joined to a stem extending from said modular base fastened to a windsock having an inner and outer adapted to receive the graphic presenting a visual display surface, said windsock further comprising an illuminator having a lens assembly surrounding a light source and in visual communication with a light tunnel, said lens assembly including a lens, a first and second reflector said light source fixed to one end of said light tunnel and operable to emit light, the first and second reflectors being spaced apart and each presenting a reflective curvilinear surface whereby said emitted light is dispersed to said visual display surface for illumination of said graphic.

Abstract: A method of public service includes the steps of providing at least one site for a structure from which emergency relief supplies are staged fo benefitting a populace in an event of disaster and promoting a business by providing that site.

Abstract: A method and system for an illuminated display. The display can include a first image that may be illuminated by a light source and a second image that may be illuminated by a light source. The light source may be a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and the LEDs and uniform illumination may be achieved through the use of waveguides. Additionally, the display may be such that it is flexible and that it may be mounted in any of a variety of locations and onto any of a variety of objects.

Abstract: A vehicle trim panel is illuminated from behind to create an illuminated design (e.g., logo and/or lettering) includes a transparent layer and an opaque layer with an opening(s) in the shape of the design. An opaque or partially opaque design piece may be placed over the opening(s) in the opaque layer and be lit around its edges. The vehicle trim panel may be formed by forming a panel with a transparent layer and an opaque layer. An opening in the opaque layer may be formed by removing opaque material (e.g., by machining or laser etching) or by masking (the mask is placed between the opaque layer and transparent layer and removed taking a portion of the opaque layer with it). A design piece may be placed over the location of the opening in the opaque layer.

Abstract: A display comprising a retractable banner stand assembly has a base with a pair of banners extendable therefrom, each banner having a forward surface and a rearward surface. When extended, the banners are arranged in a spaced back face to front face visually overlapping relationship with each banner having graphics on the forward sides of the banner. A forward banner having a different shape than a rearward banner whereby significant portions of the rearward banner may be viewed from directly in front of the banner stand assembly. The precise portion of the rearward banner viewable being dependent upon the viewing angle in front of the display. The base including a housing with each banner being retractable into said housing. In a preferred embodiment the graphics will be aesthetically complementary from the forward banner to the rearward banner; for example, a portion of the graphics on one banner may continue on another banner.

Abstract: A sign panel made of light transmitting material, has a front displaying side and a rear side, the sign panel has a background portion that is preferably a flat surface and a protruding portion that forms a sign character, wherein a lighting blocking layer attached to said background portion of the sign panel, and a highlight coating coated on said protruding portion of the rear side of the sign panel. Light can go through the protruding portion with a highlight coating. The sign panel can use without a complicated neon light tubes, and the sign panel contains no mercury versus argon based neon tubes. This is a huge win from the environmental side as there is no use for mercury inside LED signs.