Abstract: The auxiliary shelf and display is a combined display board and collapsible shelf for attachment to an appliance or article of furniture, such as a refrigerator or filing cabinet. The auxiliary shelf and display includes a vertical display portion, which is divided into an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion may have user-selectable indicia formed thereon, and the lower portion may have a mirror or an imprinted surface mounted thereto. A shelf portion is pivotally mounted to a lower edge of the vertical display portion so that the lower portion of the vertical display portion is covered by the shelf portion when the shelf portion is in a collapsed configuration. A lower surface of the shelf portion has a display board, such as a corkboard, mounted thereto, which is visible to the user when the shelf is in the collapsed configuration.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to the field of safety locks for display devices. In particular, the present invention is directed to a safety lock for real estate listing signs.

Abstract: A protective cover located on laths of a security shutter. The cover comprises a set of strips of material, and each strip comprises a base layer and a transparent protective layer. The base layer has a first surface fixed against a lath of the shutter and an image on an opposing second surface. The transparent protective layer covers the second surface such that the image is visible through the transparent layer.

Abstract: A tanning bed sanitized sign which is comprised of a compression molded EVA foam or the like which is formed by cutting the foam into sheets. The sign may be shipped flat and then folded into a tent and placed on the tanning bed when the tanning bed has been sanitized.

Abstract: A variable message sign control system has a number of variable message signs. The variable messages signs are coupled by local communication links to a sign controller. This single sign controller takes the place of multiple sign controllers in previous designs.

Abstract: An outdoor display sign has a display enclosure. The display enclosure has a number shades that reduce the solar loading on the display enclosure. The outdoor display sign has shades covering the top, back, sides and parts of the front of the sign. The shades are offset from the display enclosure to allow natural airflow between the shade and the display enclosure.

Abstract: A system for storing and displaying pom pons is provided with a frame and a plurality of securement members positioned in a spaced-apart relationship with one another along opposite side portions of the frame. The securement members releasably secure the gripping portion of pom pons. A multi-segmented frame may be provided that allows the segments to move independently from one another. Spirit adornment may be provided to the frame as well as shaping the frame itself to exhibit such adornment. Various hanging and ground supports are provided for supporting the frames.

Abstract: An emergency light system is located in the threshold subadjacent to the lower edge of an emergency egress door. The light system includes a plurality of lights mounted on a flexible backing strip in the threshold. The lights are connected to a switch that can be manually operated or operated by a sensor in a fire and/or smoke detection system associated with a room. The lights will be visible to a person crawling on the floor even if there is smoke in the room. The lights are easily installed in the threshold and will not be subject to abuse that might occur if the lights were mounted on the door itself.

Abstract: A metal decorative article includes: a first decorative member formed with a first hole pattern of through-holes, the first hole pattern having inner and outer sides, each of the through-holes extending from the outer side to the inner side, and having an outer peripheral edge on the outer side and an inner peripheral edge on the inner side, the outer peripheral edge of each of the through-holes having dimensions different from those of the inner peripheral edge of the respective one of the through-holes; a second decorative member formed with a second hole pattern of through-holes having inner and outer sides that are respectively symmetrical to the inner and outer sides of the first hole pattern; and a frame defining a frame space. The first and second decorative members are respectively received in the frame space of the frame such that the inner sides face each other and are spaced apart from each other by a gap.

Abstract: A sign for use with a restroom stall having a mounting plate that is detachably mounted to the inner surface of the bathroom stall. Connected to and extending from the mounting plate is a flexible or rigid cord. Connected to the opposite end of the flexible or rigid cord is a signage plate that is formed to fit between the spacing in the stall door and has a groove or notch that is formed to fit over the latch in the stall door.

Abstract: A new pan face sign construction comprises an opaque frame of extruded structural plastic and a pan face of clear plastic, such as acrylic or polycarbonate. Corners of the frame are simply mitered with a common miter saw and the frame pieces and pan face assembled with a suitable liquid plastic adhesive. The new pan face sign construction allows the sign lettering and graphics to be printed on the flat backside of the pan face with a modern ink jet printer and ultraviolet cured inks prior to assembly. After printing, the frame is assembled to the pan face and the sign is ready for installation.

Abstract: An emergency information storage assembly includes a housing that has a back wall, a front wall and a peripheral wall extending between and is attached to the front and back walls. The peripheral wall has a peripheral break therein so that a first portion of the housing selectively separable from a second portion of the housing. A panel has a size and shape configured to be selectively positioned in the housing. A wall surface has a doorway extending therethrough. The housing is positioned adjacent to the doorway and a plurality of fasteners is extended through the back wall and into the wall surface so that the back wall is attached to the wall surface. Personal emergency information is placed on the panel and the panel is position in the housing so that emergency personnel may retrieve it.

Abstract: A decorative light strand has user-selectable color schemes corresponding to each holiday for year-round use. In one illustrative embodiment, the light strand has a plurality of lights; a decorating selector comprising a switch which provides a plurality of user-selectable settings; and logic coupled to the switch and the plurality of lights to provide different holiday color schemes in response to the user-selectable settings.

Abstract: A large size vandal and weather sesistance sign, capable of displaying images from several components, including a video cassette with tapes or video disc and other component parts for broadcasting command directions and to provide information. The sign system, with a front and back side and a left and a right side is securely enclosed with a top side and a bottom side. The frame's materials include aluminum steel and vandal resisting and weather resisting plastics for the left and right sides and plastic sheet coverings for the for the front and back side door panels. In the event of a power outage, batteries ensures a power source for the system: it also remain constant in providing power for the sidewinder gun devices, sensors, receivers, timers and other devices, that include surveillance camera, transmitters and relay devices.

Abstract: To represent an image on a stepped surface, an eyepoint on the axis of sight in front of partial surfaces of the stepped surface is selected. The image is divided into partial images that are assigned to the partial surfaces. Each partial image is projected from the eyepoint onto the partial surface to which it has been assigned. Alternatively, the image is divided into partial images that are assigned to the partial surfaces so that the first partial image, which is assigned to the first partial surface closest to the eyepoint, is modified by a specified factor. Each additional partial image is enlarged relative to the first partial image based on the distance from the eyepoint of the partial surface to which it is assigned and is then represented on its respective partial surface.

Abstract: An airfield guidance sign. The sign 100 (of FIG. 1a) includes a case (102), a multi-element light source (114) attached to the case (102) for providing light interior to the case (102), a light dispersion subsystem of the case for dispersing the light from the light source (114) substantially uniformly throughout the interior of the case (102); and a side panel (126) forming a side of the case (102) for displaying information.

Abstract: A signage system for a traffic area, the traffic area comprising visually-identifiable boundary markers, the signage system having sign means at the boundary markers, the sign means visually viewable by an occupant of a vehicle adjacent the boundary markers. The signage system further having interaction apparatus at the parking lot for providing communication between a vehicle occupant and an entity remote from the traffic area. The signage system wherein the sign means has at least one electronic display apparatus for presenting information to a person at the traffic area.

Abstract: A system for making at least one visual advertisement using at least one stepped surface, comprising: an array of decals displaying one or more visual advertisements on a stepped surface; a plurality of signage substrates wherein the decals are applied to the signage substrates, and; at least one guide mechanism adhered to the stepped surface, wherein each of the signage substrates is positioned by the guide mechanism.

Abstract: Retroreflective sheeting including a retroreflective base having a light-incident layer on its light-incident side and a fluorine-containing resin film having a total light transmittance of 80% or more which is provided on the light-incident layer by an adhesive layer, a printed layer made of discontinuous printed parts is provided between the film and the adhesive layer. The printed layer does not cause the film to separate.

Abstract: A space frame support structure for highway signs comprises upper and lower chord members; a plurality of weld-free, single-cast connectors attached to and spaced along the respective length of the chord members; a plurality of diagonal members disposed between the upper and lower chord members in a series of “V”-shaped configuration connected end-to-end, each diagonal member forming a leg of a respective “V”. Each leg including a bottom end portion and a top end portion. The bottom end portion is attached to a respective connector attached to the lower chord member. The top end portion is connected to another connector attached to the upper chord member. A plurality of pins are carried by each connector to secure each connector to the upper or lower chord member and to the respective bottom or top end portions of the diagonal members.

Abstract: An evidence marker 10 includes at least two flat marker elements 20 bearing visual indicia thereon, and a substantially rigid leg unit 30 connecting and detachably securing the at least two flat marker elements at an angle (preferably 90°) with respect to one another. Each of the flat marker elements is preferably L-shaped and symmetrical, and more preferably about 1 mm thick and having a pair of perpendicular outer edges 22 about 10 to 11 cm long. The leg unit consists of six identical, orthogonally disposed legs 32 substantially shorter than the pair of edges 22 of the flat marker elements. The six legs 32 of the leg unit 30 are preferably about 1 to 3 cm and about 1.5 cm thick. Each of the six legs of the leg unit preferably has four orthogonal grooves 34 formed longitudinally therein. Each groove 34 is capable of receiving an edge of one of the flat marker elements therein, retaining one of the flat marker elements therein by friction.

Abstract: A method of marketing a good or service is provided including the step of providing a sign having a preprinted website address and an indication that a good or service is for sale. The method further includes providing a website where sellers can post information about the particular good or service. Consumers can visit the website indicated on the sign and view the posted information for a particular good or service by reference to a unique identifier, such as an identification number, listed on the sign.

Abstract: A movable advertising system and method that can be produced inexpensively in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and sizes and easily installed in consumer purchasing locations. The movable advertising system is designed to attract the attention of the purchasing public and enhance the sales of advertised product. The unique feature of the system is a self-contained support mechanism that reinforces the system and provides sufficient support to enable the advertising system to carry a tear-pad for sweepstakes, coupons, and/or other consumer offers.

Abstract: A sign is formed from an indicia donor element and an indicia recipient base element. The recipient base has a first color; and signage indicia is removed therefrom to cause the recipient element to be stencil-like. The donor element has a second color; and signage indicia is removed therefrom and installed into the stencil-like openings in the recipient element, to form the sign having one color of background and a second color of signage integral therein. Preferably, the donor and recipient elements are of the same baseboard material, except for color; and the donor signage is snap fit into the recipient base. The preferred orientation for this sign is vertical, just above floor level. Visual recognition of the signage can be enhanced by phosphorescence or glitter treatment. Tactile signage sensing can be enabled by texture difference between donor and recipient materials.

Abstract: A sign for cars to sell different items as an alternative to paying for a newspaper classified ad. The use of newspaper classified ads to sell percentages of and to protect ideas.

Abstract: A self-adhesive bulletin board assembly includes a bulletin board with a surface coated with a first adhesive layer that is adapted to be attached to a support surface, and a transparent sheet with opposite first and second surfaces that are coated with second and third adhesive layers, respectively. The transparent sheet is sandwiched between first and second protecting sheets prior to attachment of the same to the bulletin board, and is capable of visually exposing the bulletin board when removed from the first and second protecting sheets and attached to the bulletin board by one of the second and third adhesive layers.

Abstract: A novel promotional apparatus is provided and includes an intravenous fluid bag replica having a clock thereon. The promotional apparatus is configured to be vertically suspended from the arm of a stand. The intravenous fluid bag replica may also be mounted to a wall or may be supported at an angle by a desktop stand.

Abstract: To represent an image on a stepped surface, an eyepoint on the axis of sight in front of partial surfaces of the stepped surface is selected. The image is divided into partial images that are assigned to the partial surfaces. Each partial image is projected from the eyepoint onto the partial surface to which it has been assigned. Alternatively, the image is divided into partial images that are assigned to the partial surfaces so that the first partial image, which is assigned to the first partial surface closest to the eyepoint, is modified by a specified factor. Each additional partial image is enlarged relative to the first partial image based on the distance from the eyepoint of the partial surface to which it is assigned and is then represented on its respective partial surface.

Abstract: A three-dimensional advertising display and method of use is disclosed. The advertising display includes a structure and a plurality of sides that cooperatively form an advertising display, wherein at least one side of the plurality of sides includes an electronic panel display and at least one side of the plurality of sides includes at least one printed advertisement. A triangular structure is preferred. Solely due to cost, only a single electronic panel display is preferred, however, if the cost of the electronic panel display decreases significantly, then an electronic panel display located on each side of the advertising display would be optimal.

Abstract: An improved clearance bar uses an elongated enclosed, hollow plastic member, and fasteners on either end, permitting the member to be suspended for use. The ends are preferably hemispherical, though other shapes may be used. In the preferred embodiment the enclosed, hollow plastic member is rotationally molded. The bar may further have visual indicia, such as a height restriction, imprinted thereon or included in the mold during manufacture thereof.

Abstract: A mesh spectator safety netting with provision for advertising at a sporting event generally comprises a protective net provided with an applique for the conveyance of a commercial message. In order that the spectators at a sporting venue may be presented with a marketing communication without obstruction of their view of the athletic field, the applique generally comprises a mesh of only slightly less dimension than has the mesh of the protective net. Reflective borders may be added about the applique and or colored fibers may be used in forming the mesh in order to enhance the ability to view the advertising message from the spectator stands.

Abstract: An evidence marker 10 includes at least two flat marker elements 20 bearing visual indicia thereon, and a substantially rigid leg unit 30 connecting and detachably securing the at least two flat marker elements at an angle (preferably 90°) with respect to one another. Each of the flat marker elements is preferably L-shaped and symmetrical, and more preferably about 1 mm thick and having a pair of perpendicular outer edges 22 about 10 to 11 cm long. The leg unit consists of six identical, orthogonally disposed legs 32 substantially shorter than the pair of edges 22 of the flat marker elements. The six legs 32 of the leg unit 30 are preferably about 1 to 3 cm and about 1.5 cm thick. Each of the six legs of the leg unit preferably has four orthogonal grooves 34 formed longitudinally therein. Each groove 34 is capable of receiving an edge of one of the flat marker elements therein, retaining one of the flat marker elements therein by friction.

Abstract: A tamper-proof signage device is described which comprises a sign side support element, a sign plate (31) in the form of a channel with at least two members (34a, 34c) extending perpendicular to the plate (31), clipping legs (33) for supporting the sign plate (31) and for clipped retainment of the members (34a, 34c) and a securing device (40) for forcing the clipping legs (33) into close abutment with the members (34a, 34c). The securing device (40) is adapted to prevent unclipping of the sign plate (31) by preventing deformation of the clipping legs (33) when an unclipping force is applied to the sign plate (31).

Abstract: A board assembly for supporting memos and the like by the use of pins or other impaling implements includes a multi-layer substrate having at least a first supporting layer and a second layer on which an image is formed on a top surface thereof, the second layer being adapted to be mounted to the supporting layer, a frame for displaying the image carried by the top surface of the second layer of the substrate, and at least one other layer, exhibiting a second image different from the first image, adapted to be mounted atop the first layer of the substrate for selectively changing the image visible to a viewer. The second layer comprises woven or non-woven polyester material, and the image formed on the second layer is formed using a sublimation printing process.

Abstract: This Information Summary relates to a product idea called “Slot Guards” which has been disclosed by Ms. Margaret R. Fountain of Gary, Ind. It is based upon information submitted by the originator along with notes from conversations with interested representatives. General marketing information tailored to “Slot Guards” has been supplied and appropriate suggestions made. Standard statistical data with a heavy orientation on material prepared by the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Bureau of the Census was utilized. This data was supplemented with more specialized information available from other basic marketing reference works, trade associations, trade publications, libraries, and other sources. The results is a reference tool which can be used to submit “Slot Guards” to industry in a logical format which stresses its positive and most appealing features.

Abstract: An emergency exit sign is incorporated directly into the floor adjacent an emergency exit door. The emergency exit sign includes visual and tactile properties that allow the sign to be read on a day to day basis by those walking through the doorway. The tactile properties of the sign also allow the sign to be read by those on the floor in an emergency situation such as when the room or hallway is filled with smoke. The tactile properties of the sign may also be used by those trying to find the doorway in a dark room. Further, the tactile properties of the sign are used on a day to day basis as people walk over the sign to reinforce the person's memory of the location of the emergency exit door.

Abstract: An edge protector (1) for protecting the edge of an article comprises a pair of interconnected, non-parallel, first arms (2, 4) which, in use, do not contact any part of the article, and a pair of second arms (10, 12) for contacting or at least being situated adjacent the article in use, one of each of said second arms (10, 12) being connected to one of each of said first arms (2, 4), each said first arm (2, 4) and its' respective said second arm (10, 12) may be arranged in non-parallel relations. Further, the edge protector (1) may be resiliently deformable to absorb the energy of an impact therewith.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to an electronic display associated with a floor. The electronic display is provided with a sturdy protective cover to prevent damage to the display due to foot traffic or other factors. The protective cover in turn is provided with a device for at least one of preventing damage to the protective cover and for removing dirt from over the electronic display that may obscure the display.

Abstract: A device for displaying information in identification areas of traffic signs, signposts, billboards, license plates, etc. The identification area is provided with a surface having an artificially producible base structure and other structures or itself forms such a surface having a self-cleaning effect. The base structure has or develops a capillary effect in which the quotient of capillary work and adhesion work is greater than 1. The capillaries have a negative rise, that is, liquid is pressed form the capillaries, providing the self-cleaning effect.

Abstract: An outdoor electrical display sign with an electrical resistance heating element on a transparent front panel thereof for removing condensation or for dissipating precipitation from the surfaces of the transparent front panel of the sign. The electrical resistance heating element can be adhesively secured onto a surface of the transparent front panel, taped onto a surface of the transparent front panel, laminated between the transparent front panel and an additional transparent polymer panel, photoscreened onto a surface of the transparent front panel, photo-etched onto a surface of the transparent front panel, or formed by pouring electrical resistance material into minute grooves formed in the transparent front panel. The electrical resistance heating element can be on either the inner surface or the outer surface of the transparent front panel, preferably the inner surface.

Abstract: An electrical panel cover and signage apparatus for protecting an electrical panel and indicating government installation codes. The electrical panel cover and signage apparatus includes a device for protecting an electrical panel and indicating government code. A cover member has a front wall having a peripheral edge. A peripheral wall is attached to and extends away from the peripheral edge. The front wall has a generally rectangular shape. Electrical construction code indicia are positioned on an outer surface of the front wall. The cover is positionable over the electrical panel.

Abstract: A signage system for a traffic area, the traffic area comprising visually-identifiable boundary markers, the signage system having sign means at the boundary markers, the sign means visually viewable by an occupant of a vehicle adjacent the boundary markers. The signage system further having interaction apparatus at the parking lot for providing communication between a vehicle occupant and an entity remote from the traffic area. The signage system wherein the sign means has at least one electronic display apparatus for presenting information to a person at the traffic area.

Abstract: In some embodiments of the present invention, a vending machine display apparatus and method includes a controller, an electroluminescent display electrically coupled to the controller and adapted to be coupled to the vending machine in a location externally visible on the vending machine, and a power line coupled to the electroluminescent display and adapted to supply power to the electroluminescent display. The electroluminescent display can be associated with the user-manipulatable control and/or with a product in the vending machine dispensed by operation of the user-manipulatable control. In some embodiments, the electroluminescent display is responsive to the controller by changing graphics and/or text displayed by the display.

Abstract: Efficient and timely deliveries to residential customers are good business. Hot pizza generates tips. Cold pizza, a result of a time consuming search for the residential customer is time consuming, expensive and frustrating for delivery personnel. A method of expediting delivery service to residence target locations comprises the steps of: providing an illuminated sign having a delivering service company's indicia thereon; and, positioning the illuminated sign on an interior side of a front window glass at one of the target delivery locations. A preferred aspect of this method further comprises the step of providing a remotely controlled activator and alarm within the illuminated sign so that the illuminated sign would additionally flash and sound an alarm when the remotely controlled activator was activated by delivery personnel entering the proximate area of the sign.

Abstract: A mapping system is provided comprising a plurality of display panels (8) located at or on a ceiling of a building such as a supermarket. The panels (8) form a network of routes through the supermarket, with each panel illustrating the content of the supermarket aisle (4) adjacent the panel (8). The elevated nature of the panels (8) allows users to identify the content of aisles (4) distant from their current location, and users may thus identify a route leading to the selectred aisle as well as the contents of aisles along which the route passes. A number of alternative embodiments of the invention are described, together with methods of guiding individuals around environments using maps of the invention.

Abstract: A door for automatic vending machine in which a door structure having an item sample display unit is,improved according to the invention. In the door for the automatic vending machine, a concave portion 5 of a large door 2 made by one press molding is available for an item sample display unit 3 in which the item samples 6 are displayed on each of three stairs, four fluorescent lamps 7 illuminating the item samples 6 and an advertisement 8 provided under the item samples 6 are installed, each of three lamps being provided on lower portion of the item samples 6 and the other one of the lamps being provided on uppermost portion of the item sample display unit 3, and circumference of the item sample display unit 3 is covered with a small door 4 made by a transparent material 10 and having a frame 9.

Abstract: A portable wet floor powered drier and attention getting warning devise that includes a power driven fan mounted on the lower end of housing and having a chute directing the flow of air therefrom in a curtain along the adjacent wet floor surface. Audible and/or visual signaling devices can be mounted on the device and can be activated by a motion sensor and the circuits therefore may include timer, delay and/or sequencing switches.

Abstract: There is developed a label which enables purchasers or ordinary consumers to identify suitable commodity products at a glance, thereby providing facilities for consumers when they purchase commodity products. A target user information label section corresponding to a target user of paper diapers packed in a package is printed at a position conspicuous for ordinary consumers on the surface of the package, along with a tradename of the paper diapers. All target user designs corresponding to all target users of paper diapers to be handled as commodities are displayed as a single set in the information label section. A specific target user design corresponding to a target user of the paper diapers packed in the package is displayed greater in size than the other target user designs belonging to the set.

Abstract: A portable message board that, in a preferred embodiment, includes an audio entertainment device (radio or CD player) and an advertisement area so as to provide a promotional gift that advertisers can use to promote their brands. The message board has a housing with a front face and side edges defining a cavity. The side edges may be integral with the front face of the housing, or it may be a separate frame. The audio device is provided in the cavity. The front face has a message area which preferably includes an erasable board and optionally one or more of a magnetic board, a chalkboard, a pad of paper, or a corkboard for receiving a message. The message board has a fastener that allows it to be removably attached to a surface.

Abstract: A school bus has a stop sign hinged on an electrical actuator assembly that is attached to the side of the bus. The actuator assembly includes an electric motor that pivots the hinged stop sign from a stored position adjacent the bus to an operative position extending outwardly of the bus in perpendicular fashion and back to the stored position and an electrical control unit that includes Hall effect sensors for controlling the electric motor. These and other components are protected in an outer sealed housing that has a removable cover to facilitate installation and repair. Installation and repair is further enhanced by a removable inner housing sub-assembly that carries the electric motor and the electric control unit and that provides additional protection for these two components. The school bus also has a crossing arm hinged on an identical electrical actuator assembly, that is attached to the front bumper of the bus near the passenger doors.