Luminous signs with sequential variation of images

Details Luminous signs with sequential variation of images Luminous signs with sequential variation of images

1999-05-21

2001-02-20

Hofsass, Jeffery A. (Department: 2736)

Communications: electrical

Visual indication

Transparent or translucent indicator with means for blocking...

C340S815870, C040S436000, C040S466000

Reexamination Certificate

active

06191700

ABSTRACT:

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to the field of luminous signs, specifically those with the ability to change the presented information sequentially and create the effect of real movement of the displayed images.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
As is well known, the field of visual information by means of luminous or illuminated signs has quickly evolved into what we now know as electronic signs. However, still utilized are the simple, static, generally singled-faced signs that always show the same information. Then there are the signs which use prisms with a printed part of the final image in each face, those prisms rotate sequentially to show generally three static scenes, as the simple signs. Also, there are the signs which use a single preprinted film in a belt form, moved by an electric motor and a set of rollers, with at least two different static scenes, which are also shown sequentially.
Sometimes the above signs are interiorly illuminated, depending on the translucent properties of the material used to make the sign.
Then, there are neon or bulb signs which create the sense of movement and variation of the information shown, without achieving real images.
Another display device for sequentially displaying multiple sets of image pixels formed on a transparent mosaic through an aperture pattern formed in a substantially opaque mask is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,783,919 to Dehli, et al. The device uses an AC gear motor and a drive assembly to move a mosaic through a predetermined travel path relative to a mask to sequentially register image sets with an aperture pattern. This device displays; and static high resolution images without achieving a sense of movement.
It is therefore our intention to fill this gap between neon signs and electronic signs with the present invention.
Another objective of the present invention is to create a sign in which the exterior frame does not produce a negative effect in the final aspect of the sign. Another objective of the present invention, is to create a visual effect in which in the night, or in the darkness, the frame and the background of the sign cannot be seen so that the information or the images shown in the sign seems to be floating in the air.
In yet another aspect, the invention provides an illuminated sign with the ability to display the information on more than one of its sides.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention consists of an electromechanical system that produces synchronized movement of two or more films of any shape, with some sort of preprinted information, of any translucent material, in such a way that the overlapping of these films, thanks to the movement of the electromechanical system, produces the effect of real movement, or a sequential change of information.
Because of the black background and frame of the sign, when it is exposed in the night or in a dark space, the information or the images shown in it seem to be floating in the air. Such set up consists basically of a support frame, a conventional luminous source placed within the sign, two or more preprinted films, one or more motors, rollers and movement transfer mechanisms such as chains or belts.
The final objective is to show a scene in real movement, using any of the gamut of colors in existence, which can be visualized in its entirety thanks to translucent properties of the material used to make the films, and the source of interior light.
The system can be used in such a manner so that it is possible to show the same or different effects in the front, rear and lateral sides of the sign.
A more complete understanding of the present invention, its objectives, aspects, and advantages will be reached when the present description is read in conjunction with the following drawings.


REFERENCES:
patent: 3277597 (1966-10-01), Trame
patent: 3742631 (1973-07-01), Hasala
patent: 3747243 (1973-07-01), Schneider
patent: 3862504 (1975-01-01), Ringelheim et al.
patent: 3883966 (1975-05-01), Ludwig
patent: 3918185 (1975-11-01), Hasala
patent: 4092791 (1978-06-01), Apissomian
patent: 4246713 (1981-01-01), Eckert
patent: 4897802 (1990-01-01), Atkinson et al.
patent: 5440214 (1995-08-01), Peeters
patent: 5488791 (1996-02-01), Boni
patent: 5513458 (1996-05-01), Dehli
patent: 5783919 (1998-07-01), Dehli et al.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

Rating

Luminous signs with sequential variation of images does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.

If you have personal experience with Luminous signs with sequential variation of images, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Luminous signs with sequential variation of images will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-2613119