EP0182677B1 - Alphanumeric display using segments and subsegments - Google Patents

Alphanumeric display using segments and subsegments Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0182677B1
EP0182677B1 EP85401705A EP85401705A EP0182677B1 EP 0182677 B1 EP0182677 B1 EP 0182677B1 EP 85401705 A EP85401705 A EP 85401705A EP 85401705 A EP85401705 A EP 85401705A EP 0182677 B1 EP0182677 B1 EP 0182677B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
segments
motifs
subsegments
display
segment
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EP85401705A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0182677A1 (en
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Jean-Louis Sturny
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Individual
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    • 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
    • G09F9/37—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 movable elements

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to animated media, carrying a matrix of patterns allowing the dissemination of various information using an alphanumeric message.
  • This efficient system has a major drawback with regard to maintenance and repair.
  • the devices according to the invention are content with low maintenance (verification of micro-motors), the display is split into independent modular elements, easily interchangeable in the event of a fault, grouping sensitive or lateral elements in the lateral or lower part and allowing identification and rapid repair of a fault.
  • the devices which are the subject of the invention break down each digit or each letter into vertical or horizontal segments.
  • the display element (number or letter) is divided into segments, each optionally divided into a number of sub-segments bearing patterns, the number being a function of the desired dimension.
  • the sub-segment is a mechanical element which, in its simplest form, could be a tube or a prism (metallic, PVC, etc.), the pattern being attached or printed on this sub-segment.
  • the assembly of several tubes in a transparent core, animated in an identical way can constitute a segment.
  • the device has a fairly small and almost constant thickness, its segment-sub-segment structure allows simple implementation and troubleshooting, the motor assembly is located for example in the lower part and easily removable.
  • the drive mechanism generally located outside, in a sealed enclosure, can be returned inside a building (tall tower) by a simple mechanical connection allowing easy access to the mechanism for the maintenance or repair.
  • the display elements which are very legible during the day, as they present a drawn and contrasted image, will be visible at night thanks to simple lighting by spotlights or other.
  • the system presented may find its use for various display in certain public or private places: stations, terminals, exhibitions, congresses, stadiums, shows, holidays ...
  • the device also finds a simple application in the field of educational toys, in fact, the segments will consist of prisms that can rotate around a vertical axis, the sub-segments will also be carried by horizontally oriented prisms occupying the three faces of the prism carrier, so the user can search among many combinations, numbers, letters of the alphabet, or any other puzzle.
  • the horizontal decomposition reduces the number of patterns and simplifies the mechanism.
  • the display element is divided into segments of variable height, each segment is itself composed of two sub-segments, of equal or different dimensions, assembled along a longitudinal axis.
  • a displacement generally spoke in rotation
  • a displacement can be different, identical or zero between the two sub-segments (+ 120 °, - 120 ° or 0 ° for a prism with three faces).
  • the device has a fairly small and almost constant thickness whatever the height. Indeed, for a clock whose height of the figure is 35 cm, its thickness will not exceed 3 cm; for 2 m in height, the thickness will be around 7 cm.
  • the two positions are obtained either by a 180 ° rotation of the profile, flap or pallet, or by a slight translation of the rule inside its cell or the strip printed on its drum. In cases with three positions, as we said, it is + 120 °, 0 ° or -120 °.
  • the segments, carrying the display, are very legible by day because they present a drawn and contrasted image, their protection inside a waterproof enclosure is not necessary because the materials used are known in the industry and are not sensitive to atmospheric agents.
  • the drive mechanism will be protected and can be returned inside a building (tall tower) using a simple mechanical connection allowing easy access to the mechanism. for maintenance or repair.
  • Night vision will also be effective because the segments will be provided with a coating reflecting the light transmitted by direct lighting or transmitting their message by transparency using indirect lighting.
  • the system presented may find its use for digital display in all its forms in certain public or private places: stations, stadiums, road signs, stock exchange, etc. as well as the display of letters from the 'alphabet.
  • the sub-segment shown in Figure 1 consists of two concentric cylindrical tubes 1 and 2.
  • the outer tube 1, carrying four patterns 3, has a light equal to 1 / 5th of its circumference, revealing the inner tube 2 which is carrying five patterns 3.
  • the segment represented in FIG. 3 constituting the 1 / 7th of the number or the letter is composed of six sub-segments 8 which all pivot in an identical manner in the same segment.
  • the rotational movement is transmitted to the tubes, by means of a rack 9 to a series of bevel gears 10, the rotation must have a determined angle for each segment in order to display in general seven different images constituting the number or the letter .
  • the angle of rotation equal to K x 72 °, (K varying from 0 to 5) is obtained by a more or less significant vertical displacement of the rack which is guided inside a rail 11 fixed over the entire height of the display element.
  • the segment shown in Figure 4 is a mechanically simple assembly, the elements of which are incorporated in a molded block 12 made of a transparent material.
  • prismatic mirrors 13 are available between each sub-segment 8, the displayed image then having no discontinuity.
  • Brushes 14 fixed on the inner tubes 2 allow the self-cleaning of the transparent block during rotations.
  • the support block 12 receives in its non-visible part mini-heating resistors 128 intended to dissipate any condensation or frost.
  • the alphanumeric display has two different drives, each element has two completely identical rack control systems.
  • the message is communicated electrically to each electromagnet. If the rack is immobilized at electro-almant n ° 3 and it has to go to n ° 5 it will move under the effect of its own weight. Otherwise, the immobilized rack with electromagnet n ° 3 and having to go to electromagnet n ° 1, will drop until contact 18 placed at the foot of the rail allowing the electromagnet 20 to push the drive head 16 onto the belt 17, the rack goes up inside the rail to the contact 19 which cuts the electromagnet n 0 1 (20) which releases the rack inside the rail until the contact with the electromagnet n ° 1.
  • the sub-segment 26 consists of a prism carrying three patterns which can rotate along a horizontal axis 27.
  • the association of three sub-segments constitute a segment 28 which is, therefore, carrying nine patterns as stated in the general principle.
  • the segment is a prismatic box, consisting of two parallel plates 29 connected by means of three supports 30, the faces 29 connected by means of three supports 30, the lateral faces being made up of the three sub-segments 26.
  • the association of several segments, which can operate a rotation along a common vertical axis 31 is necessary in order to obtain the letter or the number sought.
  • the sub-segment only consists of a single tube 32 carrying five patterns 3.
  • the segment 22 is arranged vertically, the control of the rotation of the sub-segments is simplified by using at the foot of each segment a micro-motor 33 operating step by step according to the orders transmitted by an analyzer which counts the pulses electrics transmitted by the master clock.
  • a segment 101 can have three different structures.
  • Type 1 (fig. 17) is a combination of two sub-segments 102 on a single longitudinal axis; it is the basic segment whose height is equal to 1 / 7th of the height of the number
  • type 2 (fig. 16) shows a segment 101 having a double height compared to the basic segment; it is therefore divided into two equal parts 103 animated simultaneously and also composed of two sub-segments 102.
  • Type 3 shows a segment 101 without decomposition into sub-segments.
  • segments 101 to 104 are each composed of two sub-segments carrying the motif 104.
  • the segment 105 is not broken down into sub-segments but nevertheless carries 10 two motifs 104.
  • These motor elements 105 can be either micro-motors or electromagnets mechanically connected to the sub-segment 102 via a direct mechanical transmission 106 in the case of segments of type 102.
  • Each sub-segment rests on bearings 108 fixed to the chassis 109, the latter are independent for each row equal to 1/76 of the height, this independence being both mechanical and electrical; they are easily interchangeable racks c l ui are fixed on different supports using clips.
  • These supports can be, for example, a metal structure or a masonry wall.
  • Another embodiment of the invention allows passage inside a mast of the wiring between the motor elements located in the upper part and the time programming device located in the lower part which is therefore easily accessible.
  • This device can be clock specific, or belong to an urban network or even receive and analyze time codes from the public network.
  • FIG. 23 represents a study of graphics and its decomposition in accordance with the invention. It will be noted at the outset that this example of decomposition into thirty-one elements allows great flexibility and a very shallow depth even for characters of very high height. In addition, if FIG. 23 represents straight characters, they can be made italic either by changing the patterns or by a simple and slight horizontal offset of the various elements with respect to each other.
  • FIG. 23A represents a figure eight decomposed into thirty-one segments of which the upper eighteen and the lower five are each decomposed into two sub-segments all prismatic with three faces, the eight intermediate segments being decomposed each into two sub-segments, those on the right being prismatic with three faces, those on the left can be limited to two faces.
  • each series of sub-segments of each series of segments can be driven by a common motor.
  • FIG. 23A refers to thirty-one segments, it is conceivable that it can be broken down into a different number, for example into seven (FIG. 23B). This makes it easy to display numbers and letters.

Abstract

1. Device comprising moving supports carrying a matrix of motifs (3) for allowing various information to be public displayed the device comprising elements (21) constituted by vertical segments or horizontal segments, characterized in that each segment (22) is subdivided into subsegments (8) constituted by at least two coaxial profiled pieces (1, 2) for alphanumeric display, the mechanism for rotating the subsegments (8) being entirely electro-mechanical, and in that a motor (23) is associated to a group of display elements through the intermediary of a transmission shaft (24) which, at the lower end of each one of these elements, transmits to two belts (17), through driving band (25), a translational movement which is used, for short periods, for operating racks (9) vertically guided in a rail (1) and mecanically arrested by electromagnets (15) during their displacement, the distance of the displacement of the rack being a function of the desired angle of rotation for the subsegments, which angle is determined by the number of motifs.

Description

La présente invention concerne les supports animés, porteurs d'une matrice de motifs permettant la diffusion d'informations diverses à l'aide d'un message alphanumérique.The present invention relates to animated media, carrying a matrix of patterns allowing the dissemination of various information using an alphanumeric message.

Les dispositifs connus dans ce domaine utilisent:

  • A. un système à volets permettant l'affichage de l'heure et de la date, ou autres informations numériques, basé sur la décomposition d'un chiffre ou d'une lettre en deux éléments suivant un axe vertical ou horizontal. Ce système présente l'inconvénient d'une épaisseur importante vis-à-vis des dimensions de l'affichage et d'un coût élevé pour la réalisation en grandes dimensions. Le dispositif suivant l'invention permet d'éviter ces inconvénients. Dans celui-ci, l'épaisseur du support de l'affichage est faible et quasi constante quelle que soit la hauteur. L'affichage proprement dit est constitué de profilés du commerce peu coûteux, par conséquent la dimension n'est pas l'élément prépondérant dans le coût global de l'invention.
  • B. un système d'affichage par segments, matérialisés soit mécaniquement par volets et caches, soit électroniquement par cristaux liquides, ou diodes, ce qui présente l'inconvénient de ne pas être adapté à l'affichage industriel de grandes dimensions. Le dispositif suivant l'invention permet d'éviter ces inconvénients, en faisant varier sans aucun problème la hauteur du support de l'affichage et en donnant une bonne vision ce l'image de jour comme de nuit en utilisant la lumière naturelle ou artificielle.
  • C. un système à matrice de points constituée:
    • - de pastilles mobiles suivant un axe vertical ou horizontal;
    • - de diodes électroluminescentes;
    • - d'ampoules électriques.
The devices known in this field use:
  • A. a system with shutters allowing the display of the time and the date, or other numerical information, based on the decomposition of a number or a letter in two elements according to a vertical or horizontal axis. This system has the disadvantage of a large thickness vis-à-vis the dimensions of the display and a high cost for the production in large dimensions. The device according to the invention makes it possible to avoid these drawbacks. In this one, the thickness of the support of the display is low and almost constant whatever the height. The actual display consists of inexpensive commercial profiles, therefore the dimension is not the overriding element in the overall cost of the invention.
  • B. a display system by segments, materialized either mechanically by shutters and covers, or electronically by liquid crystals, or diodes, which has the drawback of not being suitable for large industrial displays. The device according to the invention makes it possible to avoid these drawbacks, by varying the height of the display support without any problem and by giving a good vision of the image day and night using natural or artificial light.
  • C. a point matrix system consisting of:
    • - mobile pads along a vertical or horizontal axis;
    • - light emitting diodes;
    • - light bulbs.

Ce système performant possède un inconvénient majeur en ce qui concerne la maintenance et la réparation.This efficient system has a major drawback with regard to maintenance and repair.

Les dispositifs connus sont illustrés notamment par US-A-1 784 365 qui décrit un dispositif d'affichage numérique regroupant des supports animés porteurs d'éléments d'une matrice de motifs, lesdits éléments se décomposant en segments verticaux ou horizontaux constitués de sous-segments à profité unique.Known devices are illustrated in particular by US-A-1 784 365 which describes a digital display device grouping animated supports carrying elements of a matrix of patterns, said elements breaking down into vertical or horizontal segments consisting of sub- single profit segments.

Les dispositifs suivant l'invention se contentent d'un entretien faible (vérification des micro- moteurs), l'affichage est scindé en éléments indépendants modulaires, facilement interchangeables en cas de panne, regroupant en partie latérale ou inférieure les éléments sensibles et permettant l'identification et la réparation rapide d'une panne.The devices according to the invention are content with low maintenance (verification of micro-motors), the display is split into independent modular elements, easily interchangeable in the event of a fault, grouping sensitive or lateral elements in the lateral or lower part and allowing identification and rapid repair of a fault.

Les dispositifs, objet de l'invention, décomposent chaque chiffre ou chaque lettre en segments verticaux ou horizontaux.The devices which are the subject of the invention break down each digit or each letter into vertical or horizontal segments.

Chaque segment:

  • 1. dans le cas d'un affichage numérique uniquement, comportera des segments verticaux ou horizontaux en nombre restreint
  • 2. dans le cas d'un affichage alphanumérique, on pourra utiliser une décomposition en segments disposés indifféremment verticalement ou horizontalement, pouvant se décomposer en sous-segments ou motifs.
Each segment:
  • 1. in the case of a digital display only, will have limited vertical or horizontal segments
  • 2. in the case of an alphanumeric display, we can use a decomposition into segments arranged either vertically or horizontally, which can be broken down into sub-segments or patterns.

L'élément d'affichage (chiffre ou lettre) est scindé en segments divisés éventuellement chacun en un certain nombre de sous-segments porteurs de motifs, le nombre étant fonction de la dimension souhaitée.The display element (number or letter) is divided into segments, each optionally divided into a number of sub-segments bearing patterns, the number being a function of the desired dimension.

Le sous-segment est un élément mécanique qui, dans sa forme la plus simple, pourra être un tube ou un prisme (métallique, PVC, ...), le motif étant rapporté ou imprimé sur ce sous-segment.The sub-segment is a mechanical element which, in its simplest form, could be a tube or a prism (metallic, PVC, etc.), the pattern being attached or printed on this sub-segment.

L'assemblage de plusieurs tubes dans un noyau transparent, animés d'une façon identique peut constituer un segment.The assembly of several tubes in a transparent core, animated in an identical way can constitute a segment.

Le dispositif présente une épaisseur assez faible et quasi constante, sa structure segments- sous-segments permet une mise en oeuvre et un dépannage simples, l'ensemble moteur est situé par exemple en partie basse et facilement démontable.The device has a fairly small and almost constant thickness, its segment-sub-segment structure allows simple implementation and troubleshooting, the motor assembly is located for example in the lower part and easily removable.

Le mécanisme d'entraînement se trouvant généralement à l'extérieur, dans une enceinte étanche, pourra être renvoyé à l'intérieur d'un bâtiment (tour de grande hauteur) par une liaison mécanique simple permettant l'accès facile au mécanisme pour l'entretien ou la réparation.The drive mechanism generally located outside, in a sealed enclosure, can be returned inside a building (tall tower) by a simple mechanical connection allowing easy access to the mechanism for the maintenance or repair.

Les éléments d'affichage très lisibles le jour, car présentant une image dessinée et contrastée, seront visibles la nuit grâce à un simple éclairage par spots ou autres.The display elements which are very legible during the day, as they present a drawn and contrasted image, will be visible at night thanks to simple lighting by spotlights or other.

Outre l'affichage horaire, le système présenté pourra trouver son utilisation pour l'affichage divers dans certains lieux publics ou privés: gares, aérogares, expositions, congrès, stades, spectacles, festivités...In addition to the time display, the system presented may find its use for various display in certain public or private places: stations, terminals, exhibitions, congresses, stadiums, shows, festivities ...

Le dispositif trouve également une application simple dans le domaine des jouets éducatifs, en effet, les segments seront constitués de prismes pouvant tourner autour d'un axe vertical, les sous-segments seront également portés par des prismes axés horizontalement occupant les trois faces du prisme porteur, ainsi l'utilisateur peut rechercher parmi de nombreuses combinaisons, les chiffres, les lettres de l'alphabet, ou tout autre puzzle.The device also finds a simple application in the field of educational toys, in fact, the segments will consist of prisms that can rotate around a vertical axis, the sub-segments will also be carried by horizontally oriented prisms occupying the three faces of the prism carrier, so the user can search among many combinations, numbers, letters of the alphabet, or any other puzzle.

Selon un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, la décomposition horizontale réduit le nombre de motifs et simplifie le mécanisme.According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the horizontal decomposition reduces the number of patterns and simplifies the mechanism.

L'élément d'affichage est scindé en segments de hauteur variable, chaque segment est lui-même composé de deux sous-segments, de dimensions égales ou différentes, assemblés suivant un axe longitudinal. Afin de présenter le motif propre à chaque segment, dont l'assemblage permet d'obtenir l'image complète et dessinée du signe, il faut envisager un déplacement (en générai en rotation) qui peut être différent, identique ou nul entre les deux sous-segments (+120°, - 120° ou 0° pour un prisme à trois faces).The display element is divided into segments of variable height, each segment is itself composed of two sub-segments, of equal or different dimensions, assembled along a longitudinal axis. In order to present the motif specific to each segment, the assembly of which allows the complete and drawn image of the sign to be obtained, it is necessary to envisage a displacement (generally spoke in rotation) which can be different, identical or zero between the two sub-segments (+ 120 °, - 120 ° or 0 ° for a prism with three faces).

Le sous-segment est un élément mécanique adapté à sa fonction:

  • Dans le cas de l'affichage numérique au sens strict (date, heure, score...) il possède une forme géométrique simple:
  • a1) un profilé creux alvéolé, de faible épaisseur, de section rectangulaire (règle aluminium par exemple) rigide, pivotant sur lui-même suivant un axe longitudinal placé à mi-hauteur ou un axe vertical placé à mi-longueur. Les deux motifs, au minimum, nécessaires pour l'affichage numérique seront dessinés sur chacune des faces;
  • a2) un système à volets comprenant une plaque fixe et une plaque mobile dont les hauteurs sont respectivement égales à la hauteur du segment pour la première et à la demi-hauteur pour la seconde, l'articulation de cette dernière étant longitudinale et située à mi-hauteur du segment. Les deux motifs comme dans le cas précédant seront dessinés, chaque dessin est décomposé en deux parties égales, l'une fixe et l'autre mobile;
  • a3) un ensemble composé d'un alvéole fixe porteur d'un cache à l'intérieur duquel coulisse une règle, de faible épaisseur porteuse sur une même face de deux motifs dessinés.
    Dans le cas de l'affichage numérique alterné avec une ou plusieurs informations diverses (publicité, affichages, ...) le sous-segment possède une forme géométrique plus élaborée.
  • b1)un prisme pivotant sur lui-même suivant un axe longitudinal, disposé horizontalement ou verticalement et passant par le centre de gravité de la section; on a alors deux faces réservées à l'affichage numérique, la troisième face pouvant être utilisée pour diffuser un message différent: les images publicitaires, par exemple;
  • b2) un tube rigide dont les quatre faces sont égales et possèdent une surface plane ou convexe. En effet, le second profil permet la rotation du sous-segment lorsque l'on désire obtenir une image sans rupture. La rotation du profilé s'effectue suivant les mêmes conditions que le prisme. On a alors deux faces réservées à l'affichage numérique, les autres faces pouvant être utilisées pour diffuser deux messages différents;
  • b3) à partir de profilés de sections polygonales, il est possible de leur adjoindre des volets soit pour augmenter le nombre de motifs ou résoudre certains problèmes mécaniques;
  • b4) un ensemble composé d'un profilé translucide ("Plexiglass" par exemple), de section rectangulaire, fixe sur un support, dont l'une des faces est destinée à présenter alternativement un des deux motifs composant le sous-segment. Un tambour situé à l'arrière de ce profilé animé d'un mouvement de rotation alternative, dont le déplacement engendré par cette rotation est égal à la dimension de la face avant de notre profilé et permet ainsi de faire apparaître l'un ou l'autre des motifs. Une bande souple, translucide, porteuse des 2 motifs est tendue entre le profilé et le tambour et se déplace telle une courroie de transmission. Sur cette bande, on peut ajouter un ou plusieurs motifs publicitaires qui peuvent apparaître entre les messages numériques, l'angle de rotation communiqué au tambour variant suivant le nombre de motifs.
The sub-segment is a mechanical element adapted to its function:
  • In the case of digital display in the strict sense (date, time, score ...) it has a simple geometric shape:
  • a1) a hollow hollow section, of small thickness, of rectangular section (aluminum rule for example) rigid, pivoting on itself along a longitudinal axis placed at mid-height or a vertical axis placed at mid-length. The two patterns, at least, necessary for the digital display will be drawn on each side;
  • a2) a shutter system comprising a fixed plate and a movable plate whose heights are respectively equal to the height of the segment for the first and to the half-height for the second, the articulation of the latter being longitudinal and located at mid -height of the segment. The two patterns as in the previous case will be drawn, each drawing is broken down into two equal parts, one fixed and the other mobile;
  • a3) an assembly composed of a fixed cell carrying a cover inside which slides a rule, of thin thickness carrying on the same side of two drawn patterns.
    In the case of digital display alternating with one or more diverse information (advertising, displays, ...) the sub-segment has a more elaborate geometric shape.
  • b1) a prism pivoting on itself along a longitudinal axis, disposed horizontally or vertically and passing through the center of gravity of the section; there are then two sides reserved for digital display, the third side can be used to broadcast a different message: advertising images, for example;
  • b2) a rigid tube whose four faces are equal and have a flat or convex surface. Indeed, the second profile allows the rotation of the sub-segment when it is desired to obtain an image without rupture. The profile is rotated under the same conditions as the prism. There are then two faces reserved for digital display, the other faces being able to be used to broadcast two different messages;
  • b3) from profiles of polygonal sections, it is possible to add shutters to them either to increase the number of patterns or solve certain mechanical problems;
  • b4) an assembly composed of a translucent profile ("Plexiglass" for example), of rectangular section, fixed on a support, one of the faces of which is intended to present alternately one of the two patterns making up the sub-segment. A drum located at the rear of this profile animated by an alternative rotational movement, the displacement of which is generated by this rotation is equal to the dimension of the front face of our profile and thus allows one or more to appear. other reasons. A flexible, translucent band carrying the 2 patterns is stretched between the profile and the drum and moves like a transmission belt. On this strip, one can add one or more advertising motifs which can appear between the digital messages, the angle of rotation communicated to the drum varying according to the number of motifs.

Le dispositif présente une épaisseur assez faible et quasi constante quelle que soit la hauteur. En effet, pour une horloge dont la hauteur du chiffre est de 35 cm, son épaisseur n'excédera pas 3 cm; pour 2 m de hauteur, l'épaisseur sera de l'ordre de 7 cm.The device has a fairly small and almost constant thickness whatever the height. Indeed, for a clock whose height of the figure is 35 cm, its thickness will not exceed 3 cm; for 2 m in height, the thickness will be around 7 cm.

Sa structure modulaire en segments permet une mise en oeuvre et un dépannage rapides.Its modular structure in segments allows rapid implementation and troubleshooting.

Son animation est assurée suivant le mécanisme adopté, par un ou plusieurs micromoteurs ou éléments électromécaniques peu complexes du fait de la simplicité du mouvement à transmettre au sous-segment, qui consiste pour certains affichages uniquement en deux positions assurant la présentation de deux motifs.Its animation is ensured according to the mechanism adopted, by one or more micromotors or electromechanical elements which are not very complex due to the simplicity of the movement to be transmitted to the sub-segment, which for certain displays consists only of two positions ensuring the presentation of two patterns.

Les deux positions sont obtenues soit par une rotation de 180° du profilé, du volet ou de la palette, soit par une faible translation de la règle à l'intérieur de son alvéole ou de la bande imprimée sur son tambour. Dans les cas à trois positions, comme on l'a dit, il s'agit de +120°, 0° ou -120°.The two positions are obtained either by a 180 ° rotation of the profile, flap or pallet, or by a slight translation of the rule inside its cell or the strip printed on its drum. In cases with three positions, as we said, it is + 120 °, 0 ° or -120 °.

Le passage d'un chiffre à un autre qu'il soit consécutif ou non s'effectue toujours d'une façon instantanée, sans apparition d'images intermédiaires ou d'un balayage des éléments constituant l'affichage comme c'est généralement le cas dans fart antérieur.The passage from one digit to another whether consecutive or not is always done instantaneously, without the appearance of intermediate images or a scan of the elements constituting the display as is generally the case. in the prior art.

Les segments, porteurs de l'affichage, sont très lisibles de jour car ils présentent une image dessinée et contrastée, leur protection à l'intérieur d'une enceinte étanche n'est pas nécessaire car les matériaux utilisés sont connus dans l'industrie et ne sont pas sensibles aux agents atmosphériques. Néanmoins, pour un emploi à l'extérieur, le mécanisme d'entraînement sera protégé et pourra être renvoyé à l'intérieur d'un bâtiment (tour de grande hauteur) à l'aide d'une liaison mécanique simple permettant raccès facile au mécanisme pour l'entretien ou la réparation.The segments, carrying the display, are very legible by day because they present a drawn and contrasted image, their protection inside a waterproof enclosure is not necessary because the materials used are known in the industry and are not sensitive to atmospheric agents. However, for outdoor use, the drive mechanism will be protected and can be returned inside a building (tall tower) using a simple mechanical connection allowing easy access to the mechanism. for maintenance or repair.

La vision de nuit sera également efficace car les segments seront munis d'un revêtement réfléchissant la lumière transmise par un éclairage direct ou transmettant leur message par transparence à l'aide d'un éclairage indirect.Night vision will also be effective because the segments will be provided with a coating reflecting the light transmitted by direct lighting or transmitting their message by transparency using indirect lighting.

Outre l'affichage horaire, le système présenté pourra trouver son utilisation pour l'affichage numérique dans toutes ses formes dans certains lieux publics ou privés: gares, stades, signalisation routière, bourse, etc.. ainsi que l'affichage de lettres de l'alphabet.Besides the time display, the system presented may find its use for digital display in all its forms in certain public or private places: stations, stadiums, road signs, stock exchange, etc. as well as the display of letters from the 'alphabet.

Il est donné, à titre d'exemple non limitatif, un mode de réalisation se référant aux dessins ci- annexés.It is given, by way of nonlimiting example, a embodiment referring to the attached drawings.

Pour l'affichage alphanumériqueFor alphanumeric display

  • - la figure 1 représente le sous-segment en coupe transversale;- Figure 1 shows the sub-segment in cross section;
  • - la figure 2 représente le sous-segment en coupe longitudinale;- Figure 2 shows the sub-segment in longitudinal section;
  • - la figure 3 est une vue de face d'un segment équipé de six sous-segments;- Figure 3 is a front view of a segment equipped with six sub-segments;
  • - la figure 4 représente la coupe d'un segment;- Figure 4 shows the section of a segment;
  • - la figure 5 est un schéma du mécanisme de mise ne place de l'affichage en vue de face;- Figure 5 is a diagram of the positioning mechanism of the display in front view;
  • - la figure 6 est un schéma du mécanisme de mise ne place de l'affichage en coupe longitudinale;- Figure 6 is a diagram of the positioning mechanism of the display in longitudinal section;
  • - la figure 7 est un schéma du mécanisme de mise ne place de l'affichage en coupe transversale;- Figure 7 is a diagram of the positioning mechanism of the display in cross section;
  • - la figure 8 est un schéma de montage de plusieurs éléments d'affichage;- Figure 8 is a mounting diagram of several display elements;
  • - la figure 9 représente l'étude du graphisme;- Figure 9 shows the study of graphics;
  • - la figure 10 représente l'analyse des motifs;- Figure 10 shows the analysis of patterns;
  • - la figure 11 est une vue en élévation d'un autre mode d'assemblage des segments et sous-segments;- Figure 11 is an elevational view of another method of assembling the segments and sub-segments;
  • - la figure 12 est une vue en coupe d'un autre mode d'assemblage des segments et sous-segments.- Figure 12 is a sectional view of another method of assembling the segments and sub-segments.
Pour l'affichage numériqueFor digital display

  • - la figure 13 représente le sous-segment en coupe transversale;
  • - la figure 14 représente le sous-segment en vue de face et en coupe;
  • - la figure 15 représente l'étude du graphisme et l'analyse des motifs.
  • - la figure 16 représente l'étude d'un autre graphisme;
  • - les figures 17, 18, 19 représentent l'analyse des segments;
  • - la figure 20 représente ranalyse des motifs portés par les sous-segments;
  • - la figure 21 représente une vue d'ensemble d'un élément d'affichage - assemblage segment et sous-segment;
  • - la figure 22 représente, en coupe, un élément d'affichage;
  • - la figure 23 représente rétude d'autres dispo--- sitions.

Dans un premier temps, on analysera les figures se rapportant à l'affichage alphanumérique à l'aide d'une décomposition horizontale en sept segments composés de six sous-segments porteurs de neuf motifs différents.
  • - Figure 13 shows the sub-segment in cross section;
  • - Figure 14 shows the sub-segment in front view and in section;
  • - Figure 15 shows the study of graphics and analysis of patterns.
  • - Figure 16 shows the study of another graphic;
  • - Figures 17, 18, 19 show the analysis of the segments;
  • - Figure 20 shows the analysis of the patterns carried by the sub-segments;
  • - Figure 21 shows an overview of a display element - segment and sub-segment assembly;
  • - Figure 22 shows, in section, a display element;
  • - Figure 23 shows a cross-section of other provisions.

First, we will analyze the figures relating to the alphanumeric display using a horizontal decomposition into seven segments composed of six sub-segments carrying nine different patterns.

Le sous-segment représenté à la figure 1 est constitué de deux tubes cylindriques 1 et 2, concentriques. Le tube extérieur 1, porteur de quatre motifs 3, possède une lumière égale au 1/5è de sa circonférence laissant apparaitre le tube intérieur 2 qui est porteur de cinq motifs 3.The sub-segment shown in Figure 1 consists of two concentric cylindrical tubes 1 and 2. The outer tube 1, carrying four patterns 3, has a light equal to 1 / 5th of its circumference, revealing the inner tube 2 which is carrying five patterns 3.

Les deux tubes représentés à la figure 2 pivotent simultanément et de façon différente; ils reposent donc sur deux châssis dissociés 4 et 5 et possèdent deux entraînements différents 6 et 7.The two tubes shown in Figure 2 rotate simultaneously and differently; they therefore rest on two dissociated chassis 4 and 5 and have two different drives 6 and 7.

Le segment représenté à la figure 3 constituant le 1/7è du chiffre ou de la lettre est composé de six sous-segments 8 qui pivotent tous d'une façon identique dans un même segment. Le mouvement de rotation est transmis aux tubes, au moyen d'une crémaillère 9 à une série d'engrenages coniques 10, la rotation doit avoir un angle déterminé pour chaque segment afin d'afficher en général sept images différentes constituant le chiffre ou la lettre. L'angle de rotation égal à K x 72°, (K variant de 0 à 5) est obtenu par un déplacement vertical plus ou moins important de la crémaillère qui est guidée à l'intérieur d'un rail 11 fixé sur toute la hauteur de l'élément d'affichage.The segment represented in FIG. 3 constituting the 1 / 7th of the number or the letter is composed of six sub-segments 8 which all pivot in an identical manner in the same segment. The rotational movement is transmitted to the tubes, by means of a rack 9 to a series of bevel gears 10, the rotation must have a determined angle for each segment in order to display in general seven different images constituting the number or the letter . The angle of rotation equal to K x 72 °, (K varying from 0 to 5) is obtained by a more or less significant vertical displacement of the rack which is guided inside a rail 11 fixed over the entire height of the display element.

Le segment représenté à la figure 4 est un ensemble mécaniquement simple, dont les éléments sont incorporés dans un bloc moulé 12 constitué d'un matériau transparent. Afin d'améliorer la qualité de l'affichage, on dispose des miroirs prismatiques 13 entre chaque sous-segment 8, l'image affichée ne présentant alors, aucune discontinuité. Des balais 14 fixés sur les tubes intérieurs 2 permettent l'auto-nettoyage du bloc transparent lors des rotations. En outre, le bloc support 12 reçoit dans sa partie non visible des mini-résistances chauffantes 128 destinées à dissiper une condensation ou un givre éventuels.The segment shown in Figure 4 is a mechanically simple assembly, the elements of which are incorporated in a molded block 12 made of a transparent material. In order to improve the quality of the display, prismatic mirrors 13 are available between each sub-segment 8, the displayed image then having no discontinuity. Brushes 14 fixed on the inner tubes 2 allow the self-cleaning of the transparent block during rotations. In addition, the support block 12 receives in its non-visible part mini-heating resistors 128 intended to dissipate any condensation or frost.

Aux figures 5, 6 et 7, le rail 11 reçoit verticalement sept crémaillères qui transmettent les ordres aux sept segments; il est muni au droit des segments de:

  • - cinq électro-aimants 15 qui permettent t'arrêt mécanique de la crémaillère 9 à un niveau tel que la rotation des tubes soit assurée pour afficher le motif désiré, chaque électro-aimant correspondant au 1/5è de tour (72°).
    Chaque crémaillère est animée d'un mouvement vertical du bas vers le haut par l'intermédiaire d'une tête d'entraînement 16 mise en contact sur une courroie 17 disposée verticalement sur toute la hauteur de l'élément d'affichage et animée d'un mouvement de translation. Le déplacement de la crémaillère du haut vers le bas, à l'intérieur du rail est assuré par son propre poids.
In FIGS. 5, 6 and 7, the rail 11 receives vertically seven racks which transmit the orders to the seven segments; it is provided with the right of the segments of:
  • - five electromagnets 15 which allow the mechanical stop of the rack 9 at a level such that the rotation of the tubes is ensured to display the desired pattern, each electromagnet corresponding to 1 / 5th of a turn (72 °).
    Each rack is driven in a vertical movement from the bottom up via a drive head 16 brought into contact on a belt 17 arranged vertically over the entire height of the display element and driven by a translational movement. The movement of the rack from top to bottom, inside the rail is ensured by its own weight.

L'affichage alphanumérique comporte deux entraînements différents, chaque élément possède deux systèmes de commande à crémaillère totalement identique. Lors de la sélection d'un chiffre ou d'une lettre, le message est communiqué électriquement à chaque électro-aimant. Si la crémaillère est immobilisée à rélectro-almant n°3 et qu'elle doit se rendre au n°5 elle se déplacera sous l'effet de son propre poids. Dans le cas contraire, la crémaillère immobilisée à rélectro-aimant n°3 et devant se rendre à l'électro-aimant n°1, chutera jusqu'au contact 18 disposé au pied du rail en permettant à l'électro-aimant 20 de pousser la tête d'entraînement 16 sur la courroie 17, la crémaillère remonte à l'intérieur du rail jusqu'au contact 19 qui coupe l'électro-aimant n01 (20) qui libère la crémaillère à l'intérieur du rail jusqu'au contact avec l'électro-aimant n°1.The alphanumeric display has two different drives, each element has two completely identical rack control systems. When a number or letter is selected, the message is communicated electrically to each electromagnet. If the rack is immobilized at electro-almant n ° 3 and it has to go to n ° 5 it will move under the effect of its own weight. Otherwise, the immobilized rack with electromagnet n ° 3 and having to go to electromagnet n ° 1, will drop until contact 18 placed at the foot of the rail allowing the electromagnet 20 to push the drive head 16 onto the belt 17, the rack goes up inside the rail to the contact 19 which cuts the electromagnet n 0 1 (20) which releases the rack inside the rail until the contact with the electromagnet n ° 1.

Il existe une relation entre le tube intérieur et le tube extérieur; en effet, lorsque l'ordre est donné sur un électro-aimant commandant le tube intérieur, automatiquement tous les électro-aimants n° 1 à 4 du tube extérieur sont coupés, ce qui permet à la crémaillère de se trouver en position 5 qui correspond à la présentation de la lumière, rendant visible le motif souhaité et porté par le tube intérieur.There is a relationship between the inner tube and the outer tube; indeed, when the order is given on an electromagnet controlling the inner tube, automatically all the electromagnets n ° 1 to 4 of the outer tube are cut, which allows the rack to be in position 5 which corresponds to the presentation of the light, making visible the desired pattern and carried by the inner tube.

Afin de présenter un message complet, comme représenté à la figure 8, il est nécessaire de disposer plusieurs éléments 21 composés de sept segments 22 disposés horizontalement et animés de la façon décrite précédemment à l'aide d'un ou plusieurs moteurs 23 qu'entraînement un arbre de transmission unique 24, ce dernier communique au pied de chaque élément le mouvement de translation aux crémaillères par l'intermédiaire des courroies 17 entraînées et guidées par deux poulies 25.In order to present a complete message, as shown in FIG. 8, it is necessary to have several elements 21 composed of seven segments 22 arranged horizontally and animated in the manner described above using one or more motors 23 that drive a single transmission shaft 24, the latter communicates the translation movement to the racks at the foot of each element by means of the belts 17 driven and guided by two pulleys 25.

L'exemple de graphisme représenté aux figures 9 et 10 conduit à une représentation de toutes les lettres de l'alphabet et de tous les chif-fres à l'aide d'une décomposition horizontale en sept segments, chaque sous-segment étant porteur de neuf motifs différents.The example of graphics shown in Figures 9 and 10 leads to a representation of all the letters of the alphabet and all the ch i f-fres using a horizontal decomposition into seven segments, each sub-segment being with nine different patterns.

Aux figures 11 et 12, il s'agit d'un autre mode d'assemblage des segments et sous-segments, utilisable en particulier dans le domaine des jeux éducatifs. Le sous-segment 26 est constitué d'un prisme porteur de trois motifs qui peut opérer une rotation suivant un axe horizontal 27. L'association de trois sous-segments constituent un segment 28 qui est, de ce fait, porteur de neuf motifs comme énoncé dans le principe général. Le segment est un caisson de forme prismatique, constitué de deux plaques parallèles 29 reliées par l'intermédiaire de trois supports 30, les faces 29 reliées par l'intermédiaire de trois supports 30, les faces latérales étant constituées des trois sous-segments 26. L'association de plusieurs segments, pouvant opérer une rotation suivant un axe commun vertical 31 est nécessaire afin d'obtenir la lettre ou le chiffre recherché.In FIGS. 11 and 12, there is another method of assembling the segments and sub-segments, usable in particular in the field of educational games. The sub-segment 26 consists of a prism carrying three patterns which can rotate along a horizontal axis 27. The association of three sub-segments constitute a segment 28 which is, therefore, carrying nine patterns as stated in the general principle. The segment is a prismatic box, consisting of two parallel plates 29 connected by means of three supports 30, the faces 29 connected by means of three supports 30, the lateral faces being made up of the three sub-segments 26. The association of several segments, which can operate a rotation along a common vertical axis 31 is necessary in order to obtain the letter or the number sought.

On analysera dans un second temps, les figures se rapportant à l'affichage numérique à l'aide d'une décomposition verticale en cinq segments de six sous-segments.We will analyze in a second step, the figures relating to digital display using a vertical decomposition into five segments of six sub-segments.

Dans le cas de la figure 13, le sous-segment n'est constitué que d'un seul tube 32 porteur de cinq motifs 3.In the case of FIG. 13, the sub-segment only consists of a single tube 32 carrying five patterns 3.

A la figure 14, le segment 22 est disposé verticalement, la commande de la rotation des sous-segments est simplifiée en utilisant au pied de chaque segment un micro-moteur 33 fonctionnant pas à pas suivant les ordres transmis par un analyseur qui comptabilise les impulsions électriques transmises par l'horloge mère.In FIG. 14, the segment 22 is arranged vertically, the control of the rotation of the sub-segments is simplified by using at the foot of each segment a micro-motor 33 operating step by step according to the orders transmitted by an analyzer which counts the pulses electrics transmitted by the master clock.

Cet analyseur transmet quatre types d'information au micro-moteur:

  • - 1 - marche avant-arrière;
  • - 2 - avancer 1 pas;
  • - 3 - avancer 2 pas;
  • - 4 - neutre.

Ainsi la présentation des motifs est possible, en s'affranchissant d'une rotation complète du tube, ce qui souhaitable pour l'affichage horaire.This analyzer transmits four types of information to the micro-motor:
  • - 1 - forward-reverse;
  • - 2 - advance 1 step;
  • - 3 - advance 2 steps;
  • - 4 - neutral.

Thus the presentation of the patterns is possible, by eliminating a complete rotation of the tube, which is desirable for the time display.

A la figure 15 est représentée l'analyse du graphisme et des motifs.In Figure 15 is shown the analysis of graphics and patterns.

Cet exemple de graphisme conduit à une représentation de tous les chiffres à l'aide d'une décomposition verticale en cinq segments, chaque sous-segment étant porteur de cinq motifs différents. Il est possible d'introduire un sixième motif préenregistré (dessin publicitaire) qui permet alors l'affichage alterné de l'heure et d'une publicité.This example of graphics leads to a representation of all the figures using a vertical decomposition into five segments, each sub-segment carrying five different patterns. It is possible to introduce a sixth prerecorded motif (advertising design) which then allows the alternating display of the time and of an advertisement.

A la figure 16, l'exemple de graphisme conduit à une représentation de tous les chiffres à l'aide d'une décomposition horizontale en 5 segments. Les segments étant eux-mêmes décomposés en sous-segments, cette nouvelle structure permet, grâce à cette souplesse dans la décomposition du chiffre ou de certaines lettres de personnaliser le graphisme de l'affichage.In Figure 16, the example of graphics leads to a representation of all the figures using a horizontal decomposition into 5 segments. The segments being themselves broken down into sub-segments, this new structure allows, thanks to this flexibility in the decomposition of the number or certain letters, to personalize the graphics of the display.

Aux Figures 17,18 et 19In Figures 17,18 and 19

Un segment 101 peut avoir trois structures différentes. Le type 1 (fig. 17) est une association de deux sous-segments 102 sur un seul axe longitudinal; il s'agit du segment de base dont la hauteur est égale au 1/7è de la hauteur du chiffre, le type 2 (fig. 16) montre un segment 101 ayant une hauteur double par rapport au segment de base; il est donc divisé en deux parties égales 103 animées simultanément et composées également de deux sous-segments 102. Le type 3 (fig. 17) montre un segment 101 sans décomposition en sous-segments.A segment 101 can have three different structures. Type 1 (fig. 17) is a combination of two sub-segments 102 on a single longitudinal axis; it is the basic segment whose height is equal to 1 / 7th of the height of the number, type 2 (fig. 16) shows a segment 101 having a double height compared to the basic segment; it is therefore divided into two equal parts 103 animated simultaneously and also composed of two sub-segments 102. Type 3 (fig. 17) shows a segment 101 without decomposition into sub-segments.

A la figure 20, il s'agit de l'analyse de trois segments composant le chiffre ou la lettre (A, B, E, G, H, 1. J, O, S, U), les segments 101 à 104 sont composés chacun de deux sous-segments porteurs du motif 104. Le segment 105 n'est pas décomposé en sous-segments mais néanmoins est 10 porteur de deux motifs 104.In Figure 20, it is the analysis of three segments making up the number or the letter (A, B, E, G, H, 1. J, O, S, U), segments 101 to 104 are each composed of two sub-segments carrying the motif 104. The segment 105 is not broken down into sub-segments but nevertheless carries 10 two motifs 104.

Aux figures 21 et 22, il s'agit d'une vue d'ensemble et d'une coupe transversale d'un élément d'affichage, ces vues montrent l'assemblage des segments qui sont porteurs de l'image dessinée du chiffre ou de la lettre.In Figures 21 and 22, this is an overview and a cross section of a display element, these views show the assembly of the segments which bear the drawn image of the figure or of the letter.

Le passage d'un caractère à un autre est instantané, sans balayage que le choix soit chronologique ou anbitraire. En effet, Il existe une liaison électrique précâblée, correspondant à chaque chiffre ou lettre que le système est capable d'afficher, qui permet d'actionner les éléments moteurs 105 transmettant, s'il y a lieu, un mouvement de rotation de 180° aux sous-segments 102.The passage from one character to another is instantaneous, without scanning whether the choice is chronological or arbitrary. In fact, there is a prewired electrical connection, corresponding to each number or letter that the system is capable of displaying, which makes it possible to actuate the motor elements 105 transmitting, if necessary, a 180 ° rotational movement. to the 102 sub-segments.

Ces éléments moteurs 105 au nombre de neuf, ou avec un seul micromoteur avec un système de synchronisation ultra simple, peuvent être soit des micro-moteurs, soit des électro-aimants reliés mécaniquement au sous-segment 102 par l'intermédiaire d'une transmission mécanique directe 106 dans le cas des segments du type 102. Chaque sous-segment repose sur des paliers 108 fixés aux châssis 109, ces derniers sont indépendants pour chaque rangée égale au 1/76 de la hauteur, cette indépendance étant à la fois mécanique et électrique; ils constituent des racks facilement interchangeables clui sont fixés sur des supports divers à l'aide de clips. Ces supports peuvent étre, par exemple, une structure métallique ou un paroi en maçonnerie.These motor elements 105, nine in number, or with a single micromotor with a sys ultra simple synchronization device, can be either micro-motors or electromagnets mechanically connected to the sub-segment 102 via a direct mechanical transmission 106 in the case of segments of type 102. Each sub-segment rests on bearings 108 fixed to the chassis 109, the latter are independent for each row equal to 1/76 of the height, this independence being both mechanical and electrical; they are easily interchangeable racks c l ui are fixed on different supports using clips. These supports can be, for example, a metal structure or a masonry wall.

Un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention permet le passage à l'intérieur d'un mât du câblage entre les éléments moteurs situés en partie haute et l'appareil de programmation horaire situé en partie basse qui est donc facilement accessible. Cet appareil peut être propre à l'horloge, ou appartenir à un réseau urbain ou encore recevoir et analyser les codes horaires provenant du réseau public.Another embodiment of the invention allows passage inside a mast of the wiring between the motor elements located in the upper part and the time programming device located in the lower part which is therefore easily accessible. This device can be clock specific, or belong to an urban network or even receive and analyze time codes from the public network.

La figure 23 représente une étude de graphisme et sa décomposition conforme à l'invention. On notera dès l'abord que cet exemple de décomposition en trente et un éléments permet une grande souplesse et une très faible profondeur même pour des caractères de très grande hauteur. De plus, si la figure 23 représente des caractères droits, ils peuvent être rendus italiques soit par changement des motifs soit par un simple et léger décalage horizontal des divers éléments les uns par rapport aux autres.FIG. 23 represents a study of graphics and its decomposition in accordance with the invention. It will be noted at the outset that this example of decomposition into thirty-one elements allows great flexibility and a very shallow depth even for characters of very high height. In addition, if FIG. 23 represents straight characters, they can be made italic either by changing the patterns or by a simple and slight horizontal offset of the various elements with respect to each other.

La figure 23A représente un chiffre huit décomposé en trente et un segments dont les dix huit supérieurs et les cinq inférieurs sont décomposés chacun en deux sous segments tous prismatiques à trois faces, les huit segments intermédiaires étant décomposés chacun en deux sous segments, ceux de droite étant prismatiques à trois faces, ceux de gauche pouvant se limiter à deux faces.FIG. 23A represents a figure eight decomposed into thirty-one segments of which the upper eighteen and the lower five are each decomposed into two sub-segments all prismatic with three faces, the eight intermediate segments being decomposed each into two sub-segments, those on the right being prismatic with three faces, those on the left can be limited to two faces.

L'ensemble peut se décomposer en cinq séries:

  • - une supérieure de cinq segments
  • - une seconde de huit segments
  • - une troisième de cinq segments
  • - une quatrième de huit segments et
  • - une inférieure de cinq segments,
The set can be broken down into five series:
  • - a superior of five segments
  • - one second of eight segments
  • - a third of five segments
  • - a fourth of eight segments and
  • - a lower of five segments,

tous ces segments étant divisés comme on l'a souligné plus haut en deux sous-segments. Chaque série de sous-segments de chaque série de segments peut être entrainée par un moteur commun.all of these segments being divided as pointed out above into two sub-segments. Each series of sub-segments of each series of segments can be driven by a common motor.

Si la figure 23A se réfère à trente et un segments, on conçoit qu'elle puisse être décomposée en un nombre différent, par exemple en sept (figure 23B). Ceci permet aisément l'affichage de chiffres et de lettres.If FIG. 23A refers to thirty-one segments, it is conceivable that it can be broken down into a different number, for example into seven (FIG. 23B). This makes it easy to display numbers and letters.

Claims (15)

1. Device comprising moving supports carrying a matrix of motifs (3) for allowing various information to be publicly displayed the device comprising elements (21) constituted by vertical segments or horizontal segments, characterized in that each segment (22) is subdivided into subsegments (8) constituted by at least two coaxial profiled pieces (1, 2) for alphanumeric display, the mechanism for rotating the subsegments (8) being entirely electro-mechanical, and in that a motor (23) is associated to a group of display elements through the intermediary of a transmission shaft (24) which, at the lower end of each one of these elements, transmits to two belts (17), through driving band (25), a translational movement which is used, for short periods, for operating racks (9) vertically guided in a rail (1) and mecanically arrested by electromagnets (15) during their displacement, the distance of the displacement of the rack being a function of the desired angle of rotation for the subsegments, which angle is determined by the number of motifs.
2. Device according to claim 1 characterized in that the subsegments (8) are constituted by a single profiled piece (1) for numerical display.
3. Device according to one of claims 1 and 2 characterized in that each profiled piece comprises either a circular section or a polygonal section which confers on the assembly of the device a comparatively small thickness while being adapted to ensuring industrial display of a considerable height.
4. Device according to claim 2 characterized in that the subsegment (8) carries in the case of numerical display at least five different motifs (3) with a view to being subdivided into vertical segments, while complementary motifs may be associated to the abovementioned motifs so as to present, in a systematic manner, pre-recorded images.
5. Device according to any one of claims 1 and 3 characterized in that each subsegment carries, in the case of alphanumerical display, at least nine different motifs arranged in any way, said complementary motifs being adapted to be associated to the abovementioned motifs so as to present in a systematic manner pre-recorded images.
6. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 characterized in that prismatic mirrors (13) are disposed between each pair of subsegments (8), so that the displayed image does not present any discontinuity.
7. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 characterized in that the association of tubes and mirrors constituting any one of said segments forms a mechanically simple homogeneous assembly by being incorporated in a moulded block (12) constituted by a transparent material.
8. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 characterized in that each cylinder is equipped at its periphery, on reduced surfaces, with a soft and flexible material (14) which allows, during rotational movements, cleaning of the visible face of the transparent supporting block (12) by simple friction.
9. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 characterized in that the transparent supporting block (12) is provided on its non visible face with miniature heating elements adapted to eliminate any condensation liquid or frost.
10. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 9 characterized in that the segments are carried by main profiled elements adapted to turn about a vertical or horizontal axis, and in that the subsegments are carried by secondary profiled pieces rigidly fixed to the main profiled elements and adapted to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the first axis, this different assembly being applicable more particulary to the field of educational games.
11. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising movable supports that carry a matrix of motifs (104) which allow numbers (0 to 9) and certain letters to be displayed by means of a decomposition or subdivision into five segments (1) which are themselves subdivided into subsegments (102), wherein the displaying element comprises:
- a primary segment the height of which is equal to 1/7th of the height of the number and which carries two motifs (104) without being subdivided into subsegments,
- two secondary segments of the same height as the height of the preceding one, each one of said two secondary segments being subdivided into two subsegments (102) which carry motifs (104),
- two tertiary segments constituted by two secondary segments,
the mechanism allowing for rotation of the segments being an electromechanical mechanism, the driving elements (105) using a direct transmission (106) for the primary and secondary segments, a transmission comprising angle deviations (107) for the tertiary segments, and the orders transmitted to the driving elements (105) being only of two different types so as to allow displacement or immobility of the segment concerned to be instantly obtained.
12. Device according to claim 11 characterized in that the displaying element is constituted by an assembly of identically structured modules corresponding to the primary and secondary segments, said modules being in the form of racks so as to allow for rapid repair, mounting and dismounting.
13. Device according to any one of claims 11 and 12 characterized in that the segment (101) may be subdivided into subsegments (102) so as to allow for greater freedom as to the decomposition of a displayed number and so as to allow the graphism of the display to be varied and individualized.
14. Device according to any one claims 11 to 13 characterized in that the profiled piece or other support for the motifs has a small thickness so as to confer to the entire device a reduced thickness while being adapted to carry out industrial display in large dimensions.
15. Device according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the profiled piece carrying the subsegments is adapted, when presenting a frontal prismatic section with more than two faces, to display in addition to the numerical message a pre-drawn different item of information occupying the available surface in addition to the two surfaces used for its main function.
EP85401705A 1984-10-10 1985-09-02 Alphanumeric display using segments and subsegments Expired - Lifetime EP0182677B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT85401705T ATE51313T1 (en) 1984-10-10 1985-09-02 ALPHANUMERIC DISPLAY USING SEGMENTS AND SUB-SEGMENTS.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8415515A FR2571528B1 (en) 1984-10-10 1984-10-10 DIGITAL DISPLAY USING MECHANICAL SEGMENTS
FR8415515 1984-10-10

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0182677A1 EP0182677A1 (en) 1986-05-28
EP0182677B1 true EP0182677B1 (en) 1990-03-21

Family

ID=9308512

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP85401705A Expired - Lifetime EP0182677B1 (en) 1984-10-10 1985-09-02 Alphanumeric display using segments and subsegments

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0182677B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE51313T1 (en)
DE (1) DE3576749D1 (en)
FR (1) FR2571528B1 (en)

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2624293B1 (en) * 1987-12-02 1992-07-31 Rousseau Pierre REMOTE VIEWING DEVICE OF A CHARACTER
US5528258A (en) * 1992-06-03 1996-06-18 Young S. Chung Changeable signboard
CN106154817A (en) * 2016-09-27 2016-11-23 苏州远唯景电子科技有限公司 A kind of magnetic fluid clock

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE231625C (en) *
US1784365A (en) * 1930-03-22 1930-12-09 Lippe-Lipski Elaine Von Der Animated sign
US1988286A (en) * 1934-01-20 1935-01-15 Schoening Max Changeable number sign
US2798319A (en) * 1955-03-31 1957-07-09 Roca Juan Nicolas Marcelino Advertising sign
DE1094637B (en) * 1959-02-18 1960-12-08 Standard Elektrik Lorenz Ag Device for displaying characters or digits
DE1935888B2 (en) * 1969-07-15 1971-08-19 ELECTROMAGNETIC DISPLAY
DE2931346A1 (en) * 1979-08-02 1981-02-19 Hildebrandt Gmbh Hps Signboard with changeable digits - uses combinations of fields on sides of prismatic elements rotatably arranged above one another

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE3576749D1 (en) 1990-04-26
EP0182677A1 (en) 1986-05-28
ATE51313T1 (en) 1990-04-15
FR2571528A1 (en) 1986-04-11
FR2571528B1 (en) 1987-02-06

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