CA2373840C - Signboard using liquid crystal display panel - Google Patents
Signboard using liquid crystal display panel Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2373840C CA2373840C CA002373840A CA2373840A CA2373840C CA 2373840 C CA2373840 C CA 2373840C CA 002373840 A CA002373840 A CA 002373840A CA 2373840 A CA2373840 A CA 2373840A CA 2373840 C CA2373840 C CA 2373840C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- lcd panel
- signboard
- advertising contents
- pattern
- contents pattern
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
- 239000004973 liquid crystal related substance Substances 0.000 title description 7
- 238000000151 deposition Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000003973 paint Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 6
- NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylic acid group Chemical group C(C=C)(=O)O NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 229910052754 neon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- GKAOGPIIYCISHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N neon atom Chemical compound [Ne] GKAOGPIIYCISHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 230000005684 electric field Effects 0.000 description 2
- 101710097943 Viral-enhancing factor Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003086 colorant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000005611 electricity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002708 enhancing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000005026 oriented polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012780 transparent material Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
- G09F9/00—Indicating arrangements for variable information in which the information is built-up on a support by selection or combination of individual elements
- G09F9/30—Indicating arrangements for variable information in which the information is built-up on a support by selection or combination of individual elements in which the desired character or characters are formed by combining individual elements
- G09F9/35—Indicating arrangements for variable information in which the information is built-up on a support by selection or combination of individual elements in which the desired character or characters are formed by combining individual elements being liquid crystals
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09G—ARRANGEMENTS OR CIRCUITS FOR CONTROL OF INDICATING DEVICES USING STATIC MEANS TO PRESENT VARIABLE INFORMATION
- G09G3/00—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes
- G09G3/04—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments using a combination of such display devices for composing words, rows or the like, in a frame with fixed character positions
- G09G3/16—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments using a combination of such display devices for composing words, rows or the like, in a frame with fixed character positions by control of light from an independent source
- G09G3/18—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments using a combination of such display devices for composing words, rows or the like, in a frame with fixed character positions by control of light from an independent source using liquid crystals
Landscapes
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Crystallography & Structural Chemistry (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
- Illuminated Signs And Luminous Advertising (AREA)
- Devices For Indicating Variable Information By Combining Individual Elements (AREA)
- Electrochromic Elements, Electrophoresis, Or Variable Reflection Or Absorption Elements (AREA)
- Liquid Crystal (AREA)
Abstract
A signboard includes at least one LCD panel (1) with more than one non-designed segment electrode (100), and an advertising contents pattern (10) defined on at least one of the surfaces of the LCD panel (1). The LCD panel (1) is disposed in a case for containing the LCD panel (1). A light source is disposed for radiating light toward the LCD panel (1).
Description
PCT/~~ u~/00431 Lr~Oi SIGNBOARD USING LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAI' PANEL
Technical Field - The present invention relates to a signboard and. more particularly. to a signboard using a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel which is designed having a predetermined advertisin ;; pattern attached on at least one surface of the LC'D panel.
Background Art There are two general types of signboards: those employing lights ("lighted signboard" ) and those in which no light emanates from the signboard ("lightless si~~nboard"). The lightless signboard comprises an acrylic panel and a sheet of adwrtisin~~ pattern attached on a surface of the acrylic panel. The advertising pattern is made of an opaque or translucent color sheet. The lighted signboard comprises a i.= box-shaped case. an acrylic panel attached on a front surface of the case.
a sheet advertising pattern attached on a surface of the acrylic panel. and a light disposed within the case. The advertising pattern is also made of an opaque or translucent color sheet.
In the case of the lightless signboard. the effectiveness of the advertisement is ' si~~nilicantlv reduced at night. On the contrary, the lighted signboard is highly el~Fective at night. However. such an effect can not be obtained during daylight hours because of the weak luminous intensity of the light.
Neon signboards. which can greatly enhance the ability to catch the attention of those within visibility range at night. are also widely used. However, such neon si~'nboards are even less effective than the oilier two types of signboards during the day.
Furthermore, since alterations to neon lights is not possible, the whole device must be replaced should the owner desire to make changes to the contents of the signboard.
In recent years. a signboard in which an LCD panel is used has been developed.
~mh a signboard has many advantages including that of enhancing the advertising ,~ ~ effect. Fi'~. 9 shows a conventional signboard using an LCD panel.
.4s shown in the drawing, the signboard comprises an LCD panel 90 provided with ITO segment electrodes 91 which correspond to advertising contents (e.g..
letters.
. ..-V b.-.
..I~.;~ ',.
CA 02373840 2001-11-14 ~"E, _ /~ , ~ .;
' ' ~ i r~ -.
numbers and symbols). a rear polarizing panel 9'_' that is attached on a rear surface of the l.C'D panel. a retlectin~~ panel 9; attached on the first polarizin~~
panel ~)'_'. and ,~
sece~nd polarizing panel ~)~4 having a different polarizing direction from the first p~larizin~~ panel 9'? and attached on a front surface of the LCD panel ~)().
Vl~hen an electric Held is applied to the segment electrodes, liquid crystal molecules c«rreshondin~~ to the se~~ment electrodes chan~~e their phases to display appropriate Imtcr:. numbers. symbols. etc.
However. in the conventional signboard using such an L.CD panel. the onlv-v~-ay in which the advertisin<~ contents can be altered is to replace the old se~~ment electrodes with new ones corresponding to the desired advertising contents.
However. it is not possible to replace the old segment electrodes installed inside the LC'D panel.
Ther~iort. a completely new LCD panel having segment electrodes corresponding.: to the ~IClwrtisin;~ contents must be manufactured. This is both costly and tulle-COIISLt171111~~.
L.ven ii~ it were possible to replace the old segment electrodes. since the specific - se~~ment electrodes cannot be mass-produced. the actual manufacturing costs incurred would he the same as when a new I.CD panel is manufactured.
1)isclusure of Invention l~herei~ore. the present invention has been made in an effort to solve the above _~~ described problems.
It is an objective of the present invention to provide a signboard using an LC'D
pang I that is desi~~ned such that the advertising contents can be easily and inexpensively chan~~ecl.
It is another objective oh the present invention to provide a signboard using an _'.- LC'1) panel that can provide preferable advertising effects during daytime as well as at ni~~ht.
It is still another objective of the present invention to provide a signboard using an I.C'D panel that is light in weight and which can be easily installed and removed.
It is still yet another objective of the present invention to provide a signboard ;~ ~ usin~~ an LC'D panel that can be applied to a conventional signboard.
thereby enhancin g the advertising effect.
To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a signboard 4~':~Y~:'-' . ; ~;-p ,>
comprising at least one LCD panel with more than one non-designed segment electrode, and an advertising contents pattern defined on at least one of surfaces of the LCD panel.
The segment electrode is formed of a plate electrode or a plurality of dot electrodes formed on a front substrate of the LCD panel.
Preferably, the LCD panel is divided into a plurality of sections each with an independent segment electrode.
Further preferably, the advertising contents pattern is defined by attaching a polarizing or reflecting film on a front surface of the LCD panel.
Alternatively, the advertising contents pattern may be defined by printing or depositing paint on a front surface of the LCD panel.
The signboard may further comprise a front polarizing plate attached on a front surface of the LCD panel while covering the advertising contents pattern, a rear polarizing plate attached on a rear surface of the LCD panel, and a reflecting plate attached on the rear polarizing plate.
1 S The signboard may further comprise a front polarizing plate disposed between a front surface of the LCD panel and the advertising contents pattern.
Preferably, the segment electrodes disposed within each of the sections are controlled by a control part. The LCD panel is driven by a solar battery cell.
Brief Description of Drawings The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention, and, together with thc~
description, serve to explain the principles of the invention:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a signboard using an LCD panel according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a signboard using an LCD panel according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a signboard using an LCD panel according to a third embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a signboard using an LCD panel according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;
Figs. Sa to Sc are example views illustrating conventional signboard assemblies PCTI~vw ~ 0 /004 1 where a signboard usin~~ an LCD panel accordin~~ to the present invention is employed:
Fi~~. 6a is an exploded perspective view of a signboard usin~~ an l.C'D panel accordin~~ to a fitth embodiment of the present invention_ Fi~!. 61, is a sectional view taken alone line I-I of Fi~~. 6a when the si~~nhoar~l is asmmbled:
Fi~~. 7 is a perspective. partly-broken view of a signboard usin~~ an LCD
panel according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention:
Fi~~. 8 is a perspective. partly-broken view of a signboard using an LCD panel accordin~~ to a sixth embodiment of the present invention: and Fi~~. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a conventional si~~nboard using an L_CI).
Best Mode for Carrying out the Invention Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiment of the invention. an example of which is illustrated in the accompanying drawin~=(s).
V h~rcv er possible. the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to rei~er to the same or like parts.
Fi'~. 1 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
_ As shown in the drawing, an LCD panel 1 comprises a pair of substrates ? and ciisl,osed opposing each other with liquid crystal injected therebetween. An a~fwrtisin~~ contents pattern 10 is formed on a ti~ont surface of the LCD
panel 1.
Disposed inside the LCD panel 1 is a segment electrode 100 designed to be driven when electric power is applied thereto to operate the liquid crystal panel 1 between a _. brieht mode and a dark mode.
That is. the segment electrode 100 is not designed in a specific advertising pattern. but disposed through an entire screen surface of the LCD panel.
Therefore.
when electric power is applied to the segment electrode 100, all of the liquid crystal molecules chan;~e their phases to turn the LCD panel on, thereby resulting in the bright s;' IllClde.
The segment electrode 100 may be made of a strip-shaped ITO electrode havin~~ a size corresponding to the screen size of the LCD panel or a plurality of .;ty~ ~.~. ~ d;,-i-f dot-shaped ITO electrodes dispersed throughout the entire screen of the LCD
panel 1.
The advertising contents pattern 10 may be formed by a polarizing film or an opaque film which is designed corresponding to desired advertising contents and attached on the front screen of the LCD panel 1. Alternatively, the advertising contents pattern 10 may be formed by printing or depositing paint on the screen surface of the LCD
panel to define a desired design corresponding to the advertising contents.
Therefore, the above described signboard displays the advertising contents when the advertising contents pattern 10 is differently displayed from the L,CD
screen by applying electric power to the segment electrode 100.
That is, when the electric power is applied to the segment electrode 100, the LCD
panel 1 is driven in the dark mode, while the advertising contents pattern 10 is displayed in a bright mode by reflecting light radiated through the LCD panel 1, thereby clearly displaying the advertising contents.
Fig. 2 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the drawing, attached on front and rear surfaces of an LCD panel 1 are front and rear polarizing plates 4 and 5, respectively. A reflecting plate 6 is attached on the rear plate 5.
Disposed inside the LCD panel 1 is a strip or dot-shaped segment electrode lOCI.
An advertising contents pattern 10 is formed on the front polarizing plate 4.
The advertising contents pattern 10 may be formed of a polarizing film or a.n opaque film which is designed corresponding to a desired advertising contents and attached on the front polarizing plate 4. Alternatively, the advertising contents pattern 10 may be formed by printing or depositing paint on the front polarizing plate 4 to define a pattern corresponding to the advertising contents on the screen of the LCD panel.
Therefore, when the electric field is applied to the segment electrode 100, the LCD panel I is driven in the dark mode, while the advertising contents pattern 10 is displayed in a bright mode by reflecting light radiated through the LCD panel 1, thereby clearly displaying the advertising contents.
Fig. 3 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the drawing, formed on a front surface of an LCD panel 1 is an advertising contents pattern 10. A front polarizing plate 4 is attached on the front surface of the LCD panel while covering the advertising contents pattern 10. Attached on a rear surface of the LCD panel is a rear polarizing plate 5.
Disposed inside the LCD panel 1 is a plate or dot-shaped segment electrode 1 OCI.
At this point, the advertising contents pattern 10 may be defined by polarizing, opaque, or oriented polypropylene. That is, any film which can reflect light may be used to define the advertising contents pattern 10.
Therefore, when the electric field is applied to the segment elecarode 100, the LCD panel 1 is driven in the dark mode, while the advertising contents pattern 10 is displayed in a bright mode by reflecting light radiated through the LCD p;~nel 1, thereby clearly displaying the advertising contents.
In the above described embodiments, a description of an electric circuit far applying power to the segment electrode is omitted.
Fig. 4 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the drawing, an LCD panel 1 is divided into, fon~ example, six sections by dividing lines la, lb, lc, Id and le, and segment electrodes 100, 101, 102,10.., 104, 105 each defining an independent display screen are disposed inside the respective one of the sections of the LCD panel 1. As in the above described embodiments, each of the segment electrodes is not designed in a specific shape, but disposed through an entire screen surface of each section.
An advertising contents pattern 10 for defining advertising contents on each of the sections is formed on a front surface of the LCD panel. Solar battery cells 20 are mounted on one side wall of the LCD panel 1.
The solar battery cells 20 apply electric power to the segment electrodes 100, 101, 102, 103, 104 and 105 in sequence or at random in accordance with aignals from a control part 30, thereby variably displaying the advertising contents defined by the advertising contents pattern 10. The electric source is not limited to the solar battery cells and it is possible to use other types of electric sources. However, the solar battery cell has the advantage of enabling the signboard to be used as a road signboard, a road warning sign, or other such signs in which the supply of electricity is difficult or impossible.
As described above, since each of the segment electrodes 100, 101, 102, 103, and 105 is independently controlled by the control part 30, it is possible to display the advertising contents in a motion picture image mode as well as a variable mode.
Preferably, a supporting member 40 is further formed on a rear surface of the LCD panel 1 so that the signboard can be removably mounted to any place.
Figs. Sa, 5b and Sc show examples when the signboards of the present invention is employed to a conventional signboard.
The signboard of the present invention may he employed on a conventional signboard 50 such that the advertising contents pattern 10 occupies a portion of a front surface of a conventional signboard 50 as shown in Fig. Sa or an entire front surface of the conventional signboard 50 as shown in Fig. Sb. As another example, more than two signboards of the present invention may be formed on portions of the front surface of a conventional signboard 50 such that the advertising contents patterns 10 of each signboard can be displayed in sequence.
Fig. 6a shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 6b shows an assembled state of the signboard depicted in Fig. 6a.
As shown in the drawings, an LCD panel 1 is divided into, for example, two sections by a dividing line la, and segment electrodes 100 and 101 are disposed inside the two sections, respectively. Front and rear advertising contents patterns Y O
and l0a are defined on front and rear surfaces of the LCD panel l, respectively. A color sheet 60, designed corresponding to the rear advertising contents pattern 10a, is correspondingly attached on the rear advertising contents pattern 10a.
Needless to say, the LCD panel may be divided into more than two sections according to the advertising contents to be displayed.
The advertising contents patterns 10 and l0a may be formed of a polarizing, reflecting or opaque film.
The signboard of this embodiment is installed into a signboard case 70 by a bracket (not shown).
The signboard case 70 is comprised of front, side and rear plates 71, 72 and which may be preferably made of opaque or translucent film.
A floodlighting portion 74 having an identical shape to that of the advertising contents pattern 10 is defined on the front plate 71. The floodlighting part 74 is defined by cutting off a portion of the front plate 71 or forming a portion of the front plate 71 using a transparent material, such that the advertising contents appearing on the advertising contents pattern 10 can be displayed on the front plate 71.
In addition, a light 75 is installed on the rear plate 73 inside the case 70.
Alternatively, the light may be installed on an upper side of the front plate outside the case. At this point, a translucent or opaque film, or a reflecting plate may be disposed on a rear side of the LCD panel 1.
Fig. 7 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the drawing, an LCD panel 1 is installed on a :front side of a signboard case 70, and an advertising contents pattern 10 is formed on the front surface of the LCD panel 1. The LCD panel 1 is divided into a plurality of sections la to lk, and a plurality of segment electrodes 100 to 111 are disposed inside the secaions la to lk, respectively.
A rear polarizing plate 5 and a color sheet 60 are attached on a rear surface of the LCD panel in this order. A front polarizing plate 4 is attached on the; LCD 1 while covering the advertising contents pattern 10.
Light radiated by the light source 75 is directed to the advertising contents pattern 10 through the color sheet 60, the rear polarizing plate 5, and the LCD panel 1, then reflected by the advertising contents pattern 10, thereby variably displaying the advertising contents at night. During daytime, the advertising contents appearing as a result of the advertising contents pattern 10 is clearly displayed.
Here, a plurality of LCD panels 1, each divided into a plurality of sections, can he used as one signboard by being coupled to each other. In this case, the a greater degree of variable advertising contents can be displayed.
Fig. 8 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the drawing, openings 71 a are formed on upper and lower sides of a front plate 71 of a signboard case 70, and an LCD panel 1 is mounted on an inner L
sari-act of the front plate 71 such that it is exposed through the openin;~s 71 a. :1n advertising contents pattern 10 is formed on the front surface of the LCD
panel 1. and a front polarizing plate 4 is attached on the advertising contents pattern 10 and the openin~Ts 71 a of the front plate 71.
In addition. a rear polarizing plate ~ and a color sheet 6() are attached on the rear surface of the LCD panel in this order. ,fin additional advertisin~~
pattern 1 ()b is i-ormecl on the ti-ont plate 71 of the case 70.
Preferably. the color sheet 60 is made of a translucent material and selected from a yarietv of colors. The color of the advertising contents to be displayed depends on the color of the color sheet 60.
In the fifth to seventh embodiments, when electric power is not applied to the light source 7~ and the LCD panel I. the advertising effect is identical to that obtained ti-om a conventional lightless signboard. However. when electric power is applied to the light source 7~ and the LCD panel l, a substantially enhanced advertising effect can .. be obtained by the light radiated from the light source 75.
Furthermore. when a solar battery cell ?0 is installed inside the case 70. the L.C'D panel 1 can be driven at ni~~ht by the solar battery cells ?0 converting li~~ht radiated from the Ii~Tht source 7~ into electric energy.
In addition. when a solar battery cell 20 is installed outside the case 70.
the _' i LC'D panel 1 is driven durin~~ daytime by sunli''ht.
Industrial Applicability I=urthermore. the advertising contents can be easily changed by replacing only the advertisin~a contents pattern with the new one corresponding to the new advertising e.-~ contents.
While this invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. but, on the contrary. is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within n ~ the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
J ' fi:S:W...,__. .:: ~iF
C)
Technical Field - The present invention relates to a signboard and. more particularly. to a signboard using a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel which is designed having a predetermined advertisin ;; pattern attached on at least one surface of the LC'D panel.
Background Art There are two general types of signboards: those employing lights ("lighted signboard" ) and those in which no light emanates from the signboard ("lightless si~~nboard"). The lightless signboard comprises an acrylic panel and a sheet of adwrtisin~~ pattern attached on a surface of the acrylic panel. The advertising pattern is made of an opaque or translucent color sheet. The lighted signboard comprises a i.= box-shaped case. an acrylic panel attached on a front surface of the case.
a sheet advertising pattern attached on a surface of the acrylic panel. and a light disposed within the case. The advertising pattern is also made of an opaque or translucent color sheet.
In the case of the lightless signboard. the effectiveness of the advertisement is ' si~~nilicantlv reduced at night. On the contrary, the lighted signboard is highly el~Fective at night. However. such an effect can not be obtained during daylight hours because of the weak luminous intensity of the light.
Neon signboards. which can greatly enhance the ability to catch the attention of those within visibility range at night. are also widely used. However, such neon si~'nboards are even less effective than the oilier two types of signboards during the day.
Furthermore, since alterations to neon lights is not possible, the whole device must be replaced should the owner desire to make changes to the contents of the signboard.
In recent years. a signboard in which an LCD panel is used has been developed.
~mh a signboard has many advantages including that of enhancing the advertising ,~ ~ effect. Fi'~. 9 shows a conventional signboard using an LCD panel.
.4s shown in the drawing, the signboard comprises an LCD panel 90 provided with ITO segment electrodes 91 which correspond to advertising contents (e.g..
letters.
. ..-V b.-.
..I~.;~ ',.
CA 02373840 2001-11-14 ~"E, _ /~ , ~ .;
' ' ~ i r~ -.
numbers and symbols). a rear polarizing panel 9'_' that is attached on a rear surface of the l.C'D panel. a retlectin~~ panel 9; attached on the first polarizin~~
panel ~)'_'. and ,~
sece~nd polarizing panel ~)~4 having a different polarizing direction from the first p~larizin~~ panel 9'? and attached on a front surface of the LCD panel ~)().
Vl~hen an electric Held is applied to the segment electrodes, liquid crystal molecules c«rreshondin~~ to the se~~ment electrodes chan~~e their phases to display appropriate Imtcr:. numbers. symbols. etc.
However. in the conventional signboard using such an L.CD panel. the onlv-v~-ay in which the advertisin<~ contents can be altered is to replace the old se~~ment electrodes with new ones corresponding to the desired advertising contents.
However. it is not possible to replace the old segment electrodes installed inside the LC'D panel.
Ther~iort. a completely new LCD panel having segment electrodes corresponding.: to the ~IClwrtisin;~ contents must be manufactured. This is both costly and tulle-COIISLt171111~~.
L.ven ii~ it were possible to replace the old segment electrodes. since the specific - se~~ment electrodes cannot be mass-produced. the actual manufacturing costs incurred would he the same as when a new I.CD panel is manufactured.
1)isclusure of Invention l~herei~ore. the present invention has been made in an effort to solve the above _~~ described problems.
It is an objective of the present invention to provide a signboard using an LC'D
pang I that is desi~~ned such that the advertising contents can be easily and inexpensively chan~~ecl.
It is another objective oh the present invention to provide a signboard using an _'.- LC'1) panel that can provide preferable advertising effects during daytime as well as at ni~~ht.
It is still another objective of the present invention to provide a signboard using an I.C'D panel that is light in weight and which can be easily installed and removed.
It is still yet another objective of the present invention to provide a signboard ;~ ~ usin~~ an LC'D panel that can be applied to a conventional signboard.
thereby enhancin g the advertising effect.
To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a signboard 4~':~Y~:'-' . ; ~;-p ,>
comprising at least one LCD panel with more than one non-designed segment electrode, and an advertising contents pattern defined on at least one of surfaces of the LCD panel.
The segment electrode is formed of a plate electrode or a plurality of dot electrodes formed on a front substrate of the LCD panel.
Preferably, the LCD panel is divided into a plurality of sections each with an independent segment electrode.
Further preferably, the advertising contents pattern is defined by attaching a polarizing or reflecting film on a front surface of the LCD panel.
Alternatively, the advertising contents pattern may be defined by printing or depositing paint on a front surface of the LCD panel.
The signboard may further comprise a front polarizing plate attached on a front surface of the LCD panel while covering the advertising contents pattern, a rear polarizing plate attached on a rear surface of the LCD panel, and a reflecting plate attached on the rear polarizing plate.
1 S The signboard may further comprise a front polarizing plate disposed between a front surface of the LCD panel and the advertising contents pattern.
Preferably, the segment electrodes disposed within each of the sections are controlled by a control part. The LCD panel is driven by a solar battery cell.
Brief Description of Drawings The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention, and, together with thc~
description, serve to explain the principles of the invention:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a signboard using an LCD panel according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a signboard using an LCD panel according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a signboard using an LCD panel according to a third embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a signboard using an LCD panel according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;
Figs. Sa to Sc are example views illustrating conventional signboard assemblies PCTI~vw ~ 0 /004 1 where a signboard usin~~ an LCD panel accordin~~ to the present invention is employed:
Fi~~. 6a is an exploded perspective view of a signboard usin~~ an l.C'D panel accordin~~ to a fitth embodiment of the present invention_ Fi~!. 61, is a sectional view taken alone line I-I of Fi~~. 6a when the si~~nhoar~l is asmmbled:
Fi~~. 7 is a perspective. partly-broken view of a signboard usin~~ an LCD
panel according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention:
Fi~~. 8 is a perspective. partly-broken view of a signboard using an LCD panel accordin~~ to a sixth embodiment of the present invention: and Fi~~. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a conventional si~~nboard using an L_CI).
Best Mode for Carrying out the Invention Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiment of the invention. an example of which is illustrated in the accompanying drawin~=(s).
V h~rcv er possible. the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to rei~er to the same or like parts.
Fi'~. 1 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
_ As shown in the drawing, an LCD panel 1 comprises a pair of substrates ? and ciisl,osed opposing each other with liquid crystal injected therebetween. An a~fwrtisin~~ contents pattern 10 is formed on a ti~ont surface of the LCD
panel 1.
Disposed inside the LCD panel 1 is a segment electrode 100 designed to be driven when electric power is applied thereto to operate the liquid crystal panel 1 between a _. brieht mode and a dark mode.
That is. the segment electrode 100 is not designed in a specific advertising pattern. but disposed through an entire screen surface of the LCD panel.
Therefore.
when electric power is applied to the segment electrode 100, all of the liquid crystal molecules chan;~e their phases to turn the LCD panel on, thereby resulting in the bright s;' IllClde.
The segment electrode 100 may be made of a strip-shaped ITO electrode havin~~ a size corresponding to the screen size of the LCD panel or a plurality of .;ty~ ~.~. ~ d;,-i-f dot-shaped ITO electrodes dispersed throughout the entire screen of the LCD
panel 1.
The advertising contents pattern 10 may be formed by a polarizing film or an opaque film which is designed corresponding to desired advertising contents and attached on the front screen of the LCD panel 1. Alternatively, the advertising contents pattern 10 may be formed by printing or depositing paint on the screen surface of the LCD
panel to define a desired design corresponding to the advertising contents.
Therefore, the above described signboard displays the advertising contents when the advertising contents pattern 10 is differently displayed from the L,CD
screen by applying electric power to the segment electrode 100.
That is, when the electric power is applied to the segment electrode 100, the LCD
panel 1 is driven in the dark mode, while the advertising contents pattern 10 is displayed in a bright mode by reflecting light radiated through the LCD panel 1, thereby clearly displaying the advertising contents.
Fig. 2 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the drawing, attached on front and rear surfaces of an LCD panel 1 are front and rear polarizing plates 4 and 5, respectively. A reflecting plate 6 is attached on the rear plate 5.
Disposed inside the LCD panel 1 is a strip or dot-shaped segment electrode lOCI.
An advertising contents pattern 10 is formed on the front polarizing plate 4.
The advertising contents pattern 10 may be formed of a polarizing film or a.n opaque film which is designed corresponding to a desired advertising contents and attached on the front polarizing plate 4. Alternatively, the advertising contents pattern 10 may be formed by printing or depositing paint on the front polarizing plate 4 to define a pattern corresponding to the advertising contents on the screen of the LCD panel.
Therefore, when the electric field is applied to the segment electrode 100, the LCD panel I is driven in the dark mode, while the advertising contents pattern 10 is displayed in a bright mode by reflecting light radiated through the LCD panel 1, thereby clearly displaying the advertising contents.
Fig. 3 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the drawing, formed on a front surface of an LCD panel 1 is an advertising contents pattern 10. A front polarizing plate 4 is attached on the front surface of the LCD panel while covering the advertising contents pattern 10. Attached on a rear surface of the LCD panel is a rear polarizing plate 5.
Disposed inside the LCD panel 1 is a plate or dot-shaped segment electrode 1 OCI.
At this point, the advertising contents pattern 10 may be defined by polarizing, opaque, or oriented polypropylene. That is, any film which can reflect light may be used to define the advertising contents pattern 10.
Therefore, when the electric field is applied to the segment elecarode 100, the LCD panel 1 is driven in the dark mode, while the advertising contents pattern 10 is displayed in a bright mode by reflecting light radiated through the LCD p;~nel 1, thereby clearly displaying the advertising contents.
In the above described embodiments, a description of an electric circuit far applying power to the segment electrode is omitted.
Fig. 4 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the drawing, an LCD panel 1 is divided into, fon~ example, six sections by dividing lines la, lb, lc, Id and le, and segment electrodes 100, 101, 102,10.., 104, 105 each defining an independent display screen are disposed inside the respective one of the sections of the LCD panel 1. As in the above described embodiments, each of the segment electrodes is not designed in a specific shape, but disposed through an entire screen surface of each section.
An advertising contents pattern 10 for defining advertising contents on each of the sections is formed on a front surface of the LCD panel. Solar battery cells 20 are mounted on one side wall of the LCD panel 1.
The solar battery cells 20 apply electric power to the segment electrodes 100, 101, 102, 103, 104 and 105 in sequence or at random in accordance with aignals from a control part 30, thereby variably displaying the advertising contents defined by the advertising contents pattern 10. The electric source is not limited to the solar battery cells and it is possible to use other types of electric sources. However, the solar battery cell has the advantage of enabling the signboard to be used as a road signboard, a road warning sign, or other such signs in which the supply of electricity is difficult or impossible.
As described above, since each of the segment electrodes 100, 101, 102, 103, and 105 is independently controlled by the control part 30, it is possible to display the advertising contents in a motion picture image mode as well as a variable mode.
Preferably, a supporting member 40 is further formed on a rear surface of the LCD panel 1 so that the signboard can be removably mounted to any place.
Figs. Sa, 5b and Sc show examples when the signboards of the present invention is employed to a conventional signboard.
The signboard of the present invention may he employed on a conventional signboard 50 such that the advertising contents pattern 10 occupies a portion of a front surface of a conventional signboard 50 as shown in Fig. Sa or an entire front surface of the conventional signboard 50 as shown in Fig. Sb. As another example, more than two signboards of the present invention may be formed on portions of the front surface of a conventional signboard 50 such that the advertising contents patterns 10 of each signboard can be displayed in sequence.
Fig. 6a shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 6b shows an assembled state of the signboard depicted in Fig. 6a.
As shown in the drawings, an LCD panel 1 is divided into, for example, two sections by a dividing line la, and segment electrodes 100 and 101 are disposed inside the two sections, respectively. Front and rear advertising contents patterns Y O
and l0a are defined on front and rear surfaces of the LCD panel l, respectively. A color sheet 60, designed corresponding to the rear advertising contents pattern 10a, is correspondingly attached on the rear advertising contents pattern 10a.
Needless to say, the LCD panel may be divided into more than two sections according to the advertising contents to be displayed.
The advertising contents patterns 10 and l0a may be formed of a polarizing, reflecting or opaque film.
The signboard of this embodiment is installed into a signboard case 70 by a bracket (not shown).
The signboard case 70 is comprised of front, side and rear plates 71, 72 and which may be preferably made of opaque or translucent film.
A floodlighting portion 74 having an identical shape to that of the advertising contents pattern 10 is defined on the front plate 71. The floodlighting part 74 is defined by cutting off a portion of the front plate 71 or forming a portion of the front plate 71 using a transparent material, such that the advertising contents appearing on the advertising contents pattern 10 can be displayed on the front plate 71.
In addition, a light 75 is installed on the rear plate 73 inside the case 70.
Alternatively, the light may be installed on an upper side of the front plate outside the case. At this point, a translucent or opaque film, or a reflecting plate may be disposed on a rear side of the LCD panel 1.
Fig. 7 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the drawing, an LCD panel 1 is installed on a :front side of a signboard case 70, and an advertising contents pattern 10 is formed on the front surface of the LCD panel 1. The LCD panel 1 is divided into a plurality of sections la to lk, and a plurality of segment electrodes 100 to 111 are disposed inside the secaions la to lk, respectively.
A rear polarizing plate 5 and a color sheet 60 are attached on a rear surface of the LCD panel in this order. A front polarizing plate 4 is attached on the; LCD 1 while covering the advertising contents pattern 10.
Light radiated by the light source 75 is directed to the advertising contents pattern 10 through the color sheet 60, the rear polarizing plate 5, and the LCD panel 1, then reflected by the advertising contents pattern 10, thereby variably displaying the advertising contents at night. During daytime, the advertising contents appearing as a result of the advertising contents pattern 10 is clearly displayed.
Here, a plurality of LCD panels 1, each divided into a plurality of sections, can he used as one signboard by being coupled to each other. In this case, the a greater degree of variable advertising contents can be displayed.
Fig. 8 shows a signboard using an LCD panel according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the drawing, openings 71 a are formed on upper and lower sides of a front plate 71 of a signboard case 70, and an LCD panel 1 is mounted on an inner L
sari-act of the front plate 71 such that it is exposed through the openin;~s 71 a. :1n advertising contents pattern 10 is formed on the front surface of the LCD
panel 1. and a front polarizing plate 4 is attached on the advertising contents pattern 10 and the openin~Ts 71 a of the front plate 71.
In addition. a rear polarizing plate ~ and a color sheet 6() are attached on the rear surface of the LCD panel in this order. ,fin additional advertisin~~
pattern 1 ()b is i-ormecl on the ti-ont plate 71 of the case 70.
Preferably. the color sheet 60 is made of a translucent material and selected from a yarietv of colors. The color of the advertising contents to be displayed depends on the color of the color sheet 60.
In the fifth to seventh embodiments, when electric power is not applied to the light source 7~ and the LCD panel I. the advertising effect is identical to that obtained ti-om a conventional lightless signboard. However. when electric power is applied to the light source 7~ and the LCD panel l, a substantially enhanced advertising effect can .. be obtained by the light radiated from the light source 75.
Furthermore. when a solar battery cell ?0 is installed inside the case 70. the L.C'D panel 1 can be driven at ni~~ht by the solar battery cells ?0 converting li~~ht radiated from the Ii~Tht source 7~ into electric energy.
In addition. when a solar battery cell 20 is installed outside the case 70.
the _' i LC'D panel 1 is driven durin~~ daytime by sunli''ht.
Industrial Applicability I=urthermore. the advertising contents can be easily changed by replacing only the advertisin~a contents pattern with the new one corresponding to the new advertising e.-~ contents.
While this invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. but, on the contrary. is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within n ~ the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
J ' fi:S:W...,__. .:: ~iF
C)
Claims (15)
1. A signboard comprising: at least one LCD panel with more than one segment electrode; and an advertising contents pattern defined on at least one of surfaces of the LCD
panel, wherein the segment electrode is formed by a plurality of dot electrodes formed on a front substrate of the LCD panel.
panel, wherein the segment electrode is formed by a plurality of dot electrodes formed on a front substrate of the LCD panel.
2. A signboard comprising: at least one LCD panel with more than one segment electrode; and an advertising contents pattern defined on at least one of surfaces of the LCD
panel, wherein the LCD panel is divided into a plurality of sections each with an independent segment electrode.
panel, wherein the LCD panel is divided into a plurality of sections each with an independent segment electrode.
3. A signboard comprising: at least one LCD panel with more than one segment electrode; and an advertising contents pattern defined on at least one of surfaces of the LCD
panel, wherein the advertising contents pattern is defined by attaching an opaque film on a front surface of the LCD panel.
panel, wherein the advertising contents pattern is defined by attaching an opaque film on a front surface of the LCD panel.
4. The signboard as claimed in claim 2 wherein the segment electrodes disposed within each of the sections are controlled by a control part.
5. The signboard of any one of claims 1, 2 or 3, wherein the segment electrode is formed of a plate electrode.
6. The signboard of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the advertising contents pattern is defined by attaching a polarizing film on a front surface of the LCD panel.
7. The signboard of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the advertising contents pattern is defined by attaching a reflecting film on a front surface of the LCD panel.
8. The signboard of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the advertising contents pattern is defined by printing or depositing paint on a front surface of the LCD panel.
9. The signboard of any one of claims 1 or 2, further comprising a front polarizing plate attached on a front surface of the LCD panel while covering the advertising contents pattern, a rear polarizing plate attached on a rear surface of the LCD panel. and a reflecting plate attached on the rear polarizing plate.
10. The signboard of any one of claims 1 or 2, further comprising a front polarizing plate disposed between a front surface of the LCD panel and the advertising contents pattern.
11. The signboard of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the LCD panel is driven by a solar battery cell.
12. A signboard comprising: at least one LCD panel with more than one segment electrode; and an advertising contents pattern defined on at least one of surfaces of the LCD
panel; a case for containing the LCD panel; and a light source for radiating light toward the LCD panel, wherein the segment electrode is formed by a plurality of dot electrodes formed on a front substrate of the LCD panel.
panel; a case for containing the LCD panel; and a light source for radiating light toward the LCD panel, wherein the segment electrode is formed by a plurality of dot electrodes formed on a front substrate of the LCD panel.
13. The signboard as claimed in claim 12 wherein the advertising contents pattern is exposed through a front side of the case.
14. The signboard as claimed in claim 13 wherein the advertising contents pattern is partly exposed through a front side of the case and a front polarizing plate is attached on the exposed advertising contents pattern.
15. The signboard of claim 13 wherein the light source is installed outside the case.
Applications Claiming Priority (9)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| KR19990008094 | 1999-05-12 | ||
| KR1999/8094U | 1999-05-12 | ||
| KR19990008095 | 1999-05-12 | ||
| KR1999/8095U | 1999-05-12 | ||
| KR1019990021471A KR20000075367A (en) | 1999-05-12 | 1999-06-09 | Advertisement panel |
| KR1999/21471 | 1999-06-09 | ||
| KR1020000008582A KR20010082986A (en) | 2000-02-22 | 2000-02-22 | A sign board using LCD panel |
| KR2000/8582 | 2000-02-22 | ||
| PCT/KR2000/000431 WO2000070593A2 (en) | 1999-05-12 | 2000-05-08 | Signboard using liquid crystal display panel |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2373840A1 CA2373840A1 (en) | 2000-11-23 |
| CA2373840C true CA2373840C (en) | 2007-04-24 |
Family
ID=27483347
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002373840A Expired - Fee Related CA2373840C (en) | 1999-05-12 | 2000-05-08 | Signboard using liquid crystal display panel |
Country Status (10)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP1210705A2 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP2003507751A (en) |
| KR (1) | KR20010112141A (en) |
| CN (1) | CN1369090A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU4617500A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2373840C (en) |
| HK (1) | HK1049727A1 (en) |
| MX (1) | MXPA01011427A (en) |
| NZ (1) | NZ514565A (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2000070593A2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KR100477977B1 (en) * | 2001-10-16 | 2005-03-23 | (주)엘씨디싸인 | signboard using liquid crystal display panel |
| JP4586332B2 (en) * | 2003-04-25 | 2010-11-24 | ソニー株式会社 | Display device |
| KR100643196B1 (en) * | 2004-10-28 | 2006-11-10 | (주) 폭스힐 | Advertising device using liquid crystal panel |
| KR100740147B1 (en) * | 2004-11-03 | 2007-07-18 | 이선욱 | Color information display device using LCD optical shutter |
| JP4147559B2 (en) * | 2005-01-31 | 2008-09-10 | 新和工業株式会社 | Liquid crystal display device for key holders or accessories |
| KR100771403B1 (en) * | 2006-08-08 | 2007-11-02 | 범재룡 | Non-powered digital photo frame and its control method |
| CN102968955B (en) * | 2012-11-28 | 2015-12-09 | 京东方科技集团股份有限公司 | A kind of dynamic display device |
| CN108074509B (en) * | 2018-01-25 | 2020-08-14 | 台州市皓仔邦工业设计有限公司 | Directional rotation polarized light reflection advertisement improvement device and control method thereof |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPS5774723A (en) * | 1980-10-29 | 1982-05-11 | Hitachi Ltd | Liquid-crystal display device |
| CA1268271A (en) * | 1987-11-06 | 1990-04-24 | David M. Makow | Electro-optic animated displays and indicators |
| KR940007398B1 (en) * | 1992-07-01 | 1994-08-18 | 최민기 | Sterilizer |
| WO1995027279A1 (en) * | 1994-03-29 | 1995-10-12 | Pricepoint, Inc. | Display module |
| KR100247818B1 (en) * | 1995-09-26 | 2000-03-15 | 손욱 | Liquid crystal display |
| JP3560467B2 (en) * | 1998-03-19 | 2004-09-02 | 株式会社キングジム | Character input device |
-
2000
- 2000-05-08 HK HK03101729.3A patent/HK1049727A1/en unknown
- 2000-05-08 EP EP00927862A patent/EP1210705A2/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2000-05-08 CA CA002373840A patent/CA2373840C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2000-05-08 MX MXPA01011427A patent/MXPA01011427A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2000-05-08 CN CN00807478A patent/CN1369090A/en active Pending
- 2000-05-08 NZ NZ514565A patent/NZ514565A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2000-05-08 WO PCT/KR2000/000431 patent/WO2000070593A2/en not_active Ceased
- 2000-05-08 AU AU46175/00A patent/AU4617500A/en not_active Abandoned
- 2000-05-08 JP JP2000618962A patent/JP2003507751A/en active Pending
-
2001
- 2001-10-13 KR KR1020010063194A patent/KR20010112141A/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| MXPA01011427A (en) | 2003-07-21 |
| KR20010112141A (en) | 2001-12-20 |
| CN1369090A (en) | 2002-09-11 |
| EP1210705A2 (en) | 2002-06-05 |
| NZ514565A (en) | 2006-10-27 |
| HK1049727A1 (en) | 2003-05-23 |
| WO2000070593A3 (en) | 2001-05-17 |
| AU4617500A (en) | 2000-12-05 |
| WO2000070593A2 (en) | 2000-11-23 |
| CA2373840A1 (en) | 2000-11-23 |
| JP2003507751A (en) | 2003-02-25 |
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| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed | ||
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Effective date: 20120508 |