EP0210913B1 - Unit display cell for a point matrix display panel - Google Patents
Unit display cell for a point matrix display panel Download PDFInfo
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- EP0210913B1 EP0210913B1 EP86401583A EP86401583A EP0210913B1 EP 0210913 B1 EP0210913 B1 EP 0210913B1 EP 86401583 A EP86401583 A EP 86401583A EP 86401583 A EP86401583 A EP 86401583A EP 0210913 B1 EP0210913 B1 EP 0210913B1
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- Prior art keywords
- plate
- optical fibre
- display cell
- light
- outside
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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
- G09F9/305—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 the ends of optical fibres
Definitions
- the present invention relates to dot matrix display panels, that is to say display panels in which each sign or character is represented by means of a dot matrix each consisting of a display cell , each matrix being controlled by a generally electronic device so as to display the desired sign or character by activating a certain number of cells of the matrix.
- These matrices are for example of the type with seven rows and five columns.
- the invention relates more particularly to display panels which must be visible from a very great distance so as to attract the attention of the public who will read the indications carried by the panel when it approaches it. This is the case in particular of the signs placed on automobile traffic lanes such as motorways; Indeed, it is necessary to send messages concerning security and the panels carrying these security messages must be able to be perceived at a long distance even if they are not read immediately by the user, taking into account the speed. to which vehicles circulate. In other words, it is necessary that the attention of the motorist is drawn while the panel is still at a great distance so as to avoid, for example, chain pile-ups.
- Display panels are known in particular in which each elementary cell is constituted by a plate having a reflective face and a black face, said plate being pivotally mounted between an active position where it has its reflective face and a rest position where it presents its black face; all the matrices of this panel display is illuminated by a light source such as a neon lamp.
- a light source such as a neon lamp.
- Display matrices are also known in which each cell is constituted by the end of an optical fiber, the other end of which receives light from a light source, a concealment device being able to be placed in front of the end of fiber optic output.
- Many variants of this type of matrix are now known, and in particular the subject of the French patent document published under No. 2,533,342 shows electro-optical switches capable of entering into the construction of such matrices from which may constitute display panels.
- Another display panel also of this type is described in French patent application 2,535,882. Such a panel has a very strong visual impact, even under very unfavorable conditions such as fog, so that it can be seen from a great distance.
- each optical fiber has a very closed solid angle, for example 12 ° at half power, so that this beam can only be perceived at a great distance. given that the panel is placed at a significant height and that the motorist quickly arrives below the area scanned by the fiber optic beams, so that he cannot read or decipher the message carried by the panel.
- the present invention therefore proposes to produce an elementary display cell of the type mentioned in the introduction which has a significant light impact while keeping a very open viewing angle.
- the invention relates to an elementary display cell comprising a plate having a reflecting face and a black face, pivotally mounted around a diametrical axis between a first position in which it presents its reflecting face externally and a second position pivoted approximately 90 degrees relative to the first and in which this reflecting face is invisible from the outside, cell characterized in that it comprises a light-emitting end of an optical fiber placed in the immediate vicinity behind said plate, the plate has an opening disposed opposite the end of the optical fiber when said plate is in said first position in which it presents its reflecting face on the outside so that the light coming from the optical fiber and the light reflected from the face reflective then be simultaneously visible s from the outside, and said plate comprises a closure element in projection substantially perpendicularly on its black face to mask the light-emitting end of the optical fiber when said plate is in said second position in which its reflecting face is invisible from the outside so that no light from the optical fiber or reflected by the reflecting face is then visible from the outside.
- the beam emitted by the optical fiber crosses the plate through the aforementioned hole so that the display point thus formed has a strong visual impact which makes it possible to attract the attention of a user when he is at long distance; moreover, the passage of the beam in the plate being in the active position reinforces the reflection effect of the latter.
- the plate rocks to present its black face and obscures the beam emitted by the optical fiber so that no light is emitted by said cell.
- said plate is constituted by a round patch pivoting about a diametrical axis.
- the end of the optical fiber is fixed to the printed circuit for controlling the matrix of cells, said optical fiber passing through said printed circuit perpendicularly to the latter.
- the end of the optical fiber is fixed to the printed circuit for controlling the matrix of cells, said optical fiber passing through said printed circuit perpendicularly to the latter.
- optical fibers of the cells of the same display panel are lit by a common intense light source; advantageously, this light source is constituted by the light source illuminating the plates when they are in active position.
- this light source is constituted by the light source illuminating the plates when they are in active position.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 show an elementary display cell which is part of a matrix, for example of the 7 ⁇ 5 type; all the cells of each matrix are carried by a printed support circuit 1 which serves both as a support for each of the cells and which also constitutes the electronic circuit for controlling the matrix.
- Each elementary cell is essentially constituted by a plate 2 comprising a reflecting face 3 and a black face 4; this plate which is for example constituted by a round disc rotating around a horizontal diametral axis 5 is controlled by an electromechanical device such as an electromagnet so as to be able to take two stable positions, a first active position shown in the figure 1 in which the reflecting face 3 is directed towards the outside facing the user and a rest position shown in FIG. 2 in which the plate 2 has pivoted by an angle at least equal to 90 ° so as to present its black side 4 outwards.
- an electromechanical device such as an electromagnet
- the diameter of this hole is at least determined to allow the beam 9 emitted by the end 7 of the optical fiber 6 to pass entirely, a beam whose solid angle is for example of 12 °.
- the end 7 of the optical fiber 6 crosses the support printed circuit 1 perpendicularly to the latter and is fixed to said printed circuit 1.
- the end 7 of the optical fiber 6 being located very close to the printed circuit 1, we obtain precise positioning of the end 7 and, consequently, of the beam 9 that it emits.
- FIG. 3 represents an embodiment of the invention based on the principle of the elementary cell of FIGS. 1 and 2, in which the end 7 of the optical fiber 6 is brought in the vicinity of the pivoting plate 2 and is provided with 'A lens 11.
- the corresponding elements have the same references as those of Figures 1 and 2 and are not described again.
- this lens 11 is supported by a sleeve 12 engaging on the end of the optical fiber 6. Thanks to this arrangement, the hole 13 arranged in the plate 2 is of much smaller dimensions and this limits the loss reflecting surface 3 due to the use of optical fiber. Furthermore, this improves the functioning of the elementary cell, in particular when the sun is facing.
- the semi-reflecting plate 2 can no longer tilt completely as in the example of claim 1 since the optical fiber comes in the vicinity of said plate when it is in the reflecting position and the end 7 of the optical fiber with the sleeve 12 opposes the rotation of the semi-reflecting plate 2. In this non-operating position which is shown in broken lines in FIG. 3, the semi-reflecting plate 2 does not obscure the beam of the optical fiber 6.
- C ' is why there is provided on the black face 4 of the semi-reflecting patch 2 a sealing element which is constituted for example by a flat element fixed perpendicularly on the black face 4.
- this element 14 is interposed on the path of the light beam coming from the optical fiber 6.
- the face 15 of this shutter element 14 which is directed outwards in the position of non-use is non-reflective.
- This sealing element can be for example a sheet of synthetic material such as that known under the trade name of MYLAR, which makes it possible to produce this sealing element very easily and at low cost.
- optical fibers can be placed side by side, in each elementary cell.
- a hole of larger dimensions is provided in the plate 2, for example an elongated hole as shown at 16 in FIG. 4.
- all the optical fibers of the display cells constituting a display panel are supplied by a common light source of high power; the upstream ends of the set of optical fibers 6 can be brought in front of the light source used to illuminate the reflecting plates 2.
- the modifications to be made to a conventional display panel with pivoting plates are limited to the installation opitic fibers 6.
- the optical fibers can be supplied with a yellow or red light source for example; it is also possible to provide the holes 8, 13 and 16 with a colored translucent wall.
- the invention makes it possible to obtain a particularly reliable display panel since it is based on the technology of display panels with pivoting reflecting plates whose reliability is very high; the addition of optical fibers to such display panels does not modify the operation of these panels, the reliability of which is preserved. On the other hand, the integration of optical fibers makes it possible to greatly increase the aggressiveness of such display panels.
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- 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)
- Control Of Indicators Other Than Cathode Ray Tubes (AREA)
- Control Of El Displays (AREA)
- Electrochromic Elements, Electrophoresis, Or Variable Reflection Or Absorption Elements (AREA)
- Display Devices Of Pinball Game Machines (AREA)
Abstract
Description
La présente invention concerne les panneaux d'affichage à matrice de points, c'est-à-dire les panneaux d'affichage dans lesquels chaque signe ou caractère est représenté au moyen d'une matrice de points constitués chacun par une cellule d'affichage, chaque matrice étant commandée par un dispositif généralement électronique de manière à afficher le signe ou caractère désiré par activation d'un certain nombre de cellules de la matrice. Ces matrices sont par exemple du type à sept lignes et cinq colonnes.The present invention relates to dot matrix display panels, that is to say display panels in which each sign or character is represented by means of a dot matrix each consisting of a display cell , each matrix being controlled by a generally electronic device so as to display the desired sign or character by activating a certain number of cells of the matrix. These matrices are for example of the type with seven rows and five columns.
L'invention concerne plus particulièrement les panneaux d'affichage qui doivent être visibles d'une très grande distance de manière à attirer l'attention du public qui lira les indications portées par le panneau lorsqu'il se rapprochera de ce dernier. C'est le cas en particulier des panneaux disposés sur les voies de circulation automobile telles que les autoroutes; en effet, il est nécessaire d'envoyer des messages concernant la sécurité et les panneaux portant ces messages de sécurité doivent pouvoir être perçus à grande distance même s'ils ne sont pas lus tout de suite par l'usager, compte tenu de la vitesse à laquelle circulent les véhicules. En d'autres termes, il faut que l'attention de l'automobiliste soit attirée alors que le panneau se trouve encore à une grande distance de manière à éviter par exemple des carambolages en chaîne.The invention relates more particularly to display panels which must be visible from a very great distance so as to attract the attention of the public who will read the indications carried by the panel when it approaches it. This is the case in particular of the signs placed on automobile traffic lanes such as motorways; Indeed, it is necessary to send messages concerning security and the panels carrying these security messages must be able to be perceived at a long distance even if they are not read immediately by the user, taking into account the speed. to which vehicles circulate. In other words, it is necessary that the attention of the motorist is drawn while the panel is still at a great distance so as to avoid, for example, chain pile-ups.
On connaît en particulier des panneaux d'affichage dans lesquels chaque cellule élémentaire est constituée par une plaque présentant une face réfléchissante et une face noire, ladite plaque étant montée à pivotement entre une position active où elle présente sa face réfléchissante et une position de repos où elle présente sa face noire; l'ensemble des matrices de ce panneau d'affichage est éclairé par une source lumineuse telle qu'une lampe au néon. Ces panneaux d'affichage sont très lisibles à distance fiable ou moyenne et leur technologie est très fiable, mais ils ne sont pas assez "agressifs" à grande distance, c'est-à-dire qu'ils n'attirent pas l'attention d'un automobiliste se trouvant à grande distance, si bien qu'il risque de découvrir ce panneau trop tard pour en lire le contenu ou pour réagir afin d'éviter par exemple un accident.Display panels are known in particular in which each elementary cell is constituted by a plate having a reflective face and a black face, said plate being pivotally mounted between an active position where it has its reflective face and a rest position where it presents its black face; all the matrices of this panel display is illuminated by a light source such as a neon lamp. These billboards are very readable at a reliable or medium distance and their technology is very reliable, but they are not "aggressive" enough at long distance, that is to say that they do not attract attention of a motorist who is at a great distance, so that he may discover this sign too late to read the content or to react in order to avoid, for example, an accident.
La demande de brevet européen publiée sous le No. 054 336 montre un panneau de ce type dans lequel, afin de le rendre réellement visible de nuit, on a été amené à prévoir en plus que la plaque de chaque cellule puisse prendre une troisième position dans laquelle elle ne présente aucune de ses faces, mais l'un de ses chants, de telle sorte que soit rendu visible un élément lumineux, tel qu'une lampe à incandescence, normalement caché par la plaque en question, ce qui complique notablement le montage et la commande du panneau.The European patent application published under No. 054 336 shows a panel of this type in which, in order to make it really visible at night, we have had to provide in addition that the plate of each cell can take a third position in which it has none of its faces, but one of its edges, so that is made visible a light element, such as an incandescent lamp, normally hidden by the plate in question, which significantly complicates the assembly and panel control.
On connaît également des matrices d'affichage dans lesquelles chaque cellule est constituée par l'extrémité d'une fibre optique dont l'autre extrémité reçoit la lumière d'une source lumineuse, un dispositif d'occultation pouvant se placer devant l'extrémité de sortie de la fibre optique. De nombreuses variantes de ce type de matrice sont maintenant connues, et notamment l'objet du document de brevet français publié sous le No. 2 533 342 montre des interrupteurs électro-optiques susceptibles d'entrer dans la construction de telles matrices à partir desquelles on peut constituer des panneaux d'affichage. Un autre panneau d'affichage également de ce type est décrit dans la demande de brevet français 2 535 882. Un tel panneau présente un impact visuel très fort, même dans des conditions très défavorables telles que le brouillard, si bien qu'il peut être perçu à grande distance. Cependant, le faisceau émis par chaque fibre optique présente un angle solide très fermé, par exemple 12° à mi-puissance, si bien que ce faisceau ne peut être perçu qu'à grande distance compte tenu du fait que le panneau est disposé à une hauteur importante et que l'automobiliste parvient rapidement endessous de la zone balayée par les faisceaux des fibres optiques, si bien qu'il ne peut pas lire ou déchiffrer le message porté par le panneau.Display matrices are also known in which each cell is constituted by the end of an optical fiber, the other end of which receives light from a light source, a concealment device being able to be placed in front of the end of fiber optic output. Many variants of this type of matrix are now known, and in particular the subject of the French patent document published under No. 2,533,342 shows electro-optical switches capable of entering into the construction of such matrices from which may constitute display panels. Another display panel also of this type is described in French patent application 2,535,882. Such a panel has a very strong visual impact, even under very unfavorable conditions such as fog, so that it can be seen from a great distance. However, the beam emitted by each optical fiber has a very closed solid angle, for example 12 ° at half power, so that this beam can only be perceived at a great distance. given that the panel is placed at a significant height and that the motorist quickly arrives below the area scanned by the fiber optic beams, so that he cannot read or decipher the message carried by the panel.
La présente invention se propose donc de réaliser une cellule élémentaire d'affichage du type cité dans l'introduction qui présente un impact lumineux important tout en gardant un angle de vision très ouvert.The present invention therefore proposes to produce an elementary display cell of the type mentioned in the introduction which has a significant light impact while keeping a very open viewing angle.
A cet effet, l'invention concerne une cellule élémentaire d'affichage comportant une plaque présentant une face réfléchissante et une face noire, montée à pivotement autour d'un axe diamétral entre une première position dans laquelle elle présente extérieurement sa face réfléchissante et une deuxième position pivotée approximativement de 90 degrés par rapport à la première et dans laquelle cette face réfléchissante est invisible de l'extérieur, cellule caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte une extrémité émettrice de lumière d'une fibre optique disposée à proximité immédiate derrière ladite plaque, la plaque comporte une ouverture disposée en regard de l'extrémité de la fibre optique lorsque ladite plaque est dans ladite première position dans laquelle elle présente extérieurement sa face réfléchissante de telle sorte que la lumière issue de la fibre optique et la lumière réfléchie par la face réfléchissante soient alors simultanément visibles de l'extérieur, et ladite plaque comporte un élément d'obturation en projection sensiblement perpendiculairement sur sa face noire pour masquer l'extrémité émettrice de lumière de la fibre optique lorsque ladite plaque est dans ladite deuxième position dans laquelle sa face réfléchissante est invisible de l'extérieur de telle sorte qu'aucune lumière issue de la fibre optique ni réfléchie par la face réfléchissante ne soit alors visible de l'extérieur. De ce fait, en position "allumée", le faisceau émis par la fibre optique traverse la plaque par le trou précité de telle manière que le point d'affichage ainsi constitué présente un impact visuel fort qui permet d'attirer l'attention d'un usager alors qu'il se trouve à grande distance; par ailleurs, le passage du faisceau dans la plaque se trouvant en position active renforce l'effet de réflexion de cette dernière. Lorsque la cellule se trouve en position de repos, la plaque bascule pour présenter sa face noire et occulte le faisceau émis par la fibre optique de telle sorte qu'aucune lumière n'est émise par ladite cellule.To this end, the invention relates to an elementary display cell comprising a plate having a reflecting face and a black face, pivotally mounted around a diametrical axis between a first position in which it presents its reflecting face externally and a second position pivoted approximately 90 degrees relative to the first and in which this reflecting face is invisible from the outside, cell characterized in that it comprises a light-emitting end of an optical fiber placed in the immediate vicinity behind said plate, the plate has an opening disposed opposite the end of the optical fiber when said plate is in said first position in which it presents its reflecting face on the outside so that the light coming from the optical fiber and the light reflected from the face reflective then be simultaneously visible s from the outside, and said plate comprises a closure element in projection substantially perpendicularly on its black face to mask the light-emitting end of the optical fiber when said plate is in said second position in which its reflecting face is invisible from the outside so that no light from the optical fiber or reflected by the reflecting face is then visible from the outside. Therefore, in the "on" position, the beam emitted by the optical fiber crosses the plate through the aforementioned hole so that the display point thus formed has a strong visual impact which makes it possible to attract the attention of a user when he is at long distance; moreover, the passage of the beam in the plate being in the active position reinforces the reflection effect of the latter. When the cell is in the rest position, the plate rocks to present its black face and obscures the beam emitted by the optical fiber so that no light is emitted by said cell.
Selon un mode de réalisation, ladite plaque est constituée par une pastille ronde pivotant autour d'un axe diamétral.According to one embodiment, said plate is constituted by a round patch pivoting about a diametrical axis.
Avantageusement, l'extrémité de la fibre optique est fixée sur le circuit imprimé de commande de la matrice de cellules, ladite fibre optique traversant ledit circuit imprimé perpendiculairement à ce dernier. De cette manière, on peut obtenir un positionnement précis des fibres optiques, les trous de passage dans le circuit imprimé étant réalisés lors de la fabrication dudit circuit imprimé. De cette manière, on obtient un positionnement précis des fibres optiques et la fixation de ces dernières est obtenue avec un coût faible.Advantageously, the end of the optical fiber is fixed to the printed circuit for controlling the matrix of cells, said optical fiber passing through said printed circuit perpendicularly to the latter. In this way, it is possible to obtain a precise positioning of the optical fibers, the through holes in the printed circuit being made during the manufacture of said printed circuit. In this way, precise positioning of the optical fibers is obtained and the fixing of the latter is obtained with low cost.
L'ensemble des fibres optiques des cellules d'un même panneau d'affichage est éclairé par une source lumineuse intense commune; avantageusement, cette source lumineuse est constituée par la source lumineuse éclairant les plaques lorsqu'elles sont en position active. De ce fait, l'incorporation des fibres optiques dans la matrice de cellules d'affichage à plaques pivotantes est effectuée avec un prix de revient réduit puisque les seuls éléments rajoutés sont en fait les fibres optiques.All the optical fibers of the cells of the same display panel are lit by a common intense light source; advantageously, this light source is constituted by the light source illuminating the plates when they are in active position. As a result, the incorporation of optical fibers into the matrix of display cells with pivoting plates is carried out with a reduced cost price since the only elements added are in fact optical fibers.
D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention ressortiront de la description qui suit ainsi que des dessins annexés sur lesquels :
- la figure 1 est le schéma de principe, en position active, d'une nouvelle cellule élémentaire d'affichage dont la cellule selon l'invention est une évolution,
- la figure 2 représente, en position de repos, la cellule d'affichage de la figure 1,
- la figure 3 représente une forme de réalisation d'une cellule élémentaire d'affichage selon l'invention, et
- la figure 4 représente une forme de réalisation d'une plaque pivotante équipant la cellule de la figure 3.
- FIG. 1 is the block diagram, in the active position, of a new elementary display cell whose cell according to the invention is an evolution,
- FIG. 2 represents, in the rest position, the display cell of FIG. 1,
- FIG. 3 represents an embodiment of an elementary display cell according to the invention, and
- FIG. 4 represents an embodiment of a pivoting plate equipping the cell of FIG. 3.
On a représenté sur les figures 1 et 2 une cellule élémentaire d'affichage qui fait partie d'une matrice, par exemple du type 7 x 5 ; l'ensemble des cellules de chaque matrice est porté par un circuit imprimé de support 1 qui sert à la fois de support pour chacune des cellules et qui constitue également le circuit électronique de commande de la matrice.FIGS. 1 and 2 show an elementary display cell which is part of a matrix, for example of the 7 × 5 type; all the cells of each matrix are carried by a printed support circuit 1 which serves both as a support for each of the cells and which also constitutes the electronic circuit for controlling the matrix.
Chaque cellule élémentaire est essentiellement constituée par une plaque 2 comportant une face réfléchissante 3 et une face noire 4 ; cette plaque qui est par exemple constituée par une pastille ronde tournant autour d'un axe diamétral horizontal 5 est commandée par un dispositif électromécanique tel qu'un électro-aimant de manière à pouvoir prendre deux positions stables, une première position active représentée à la figure 1 dans laquelle la face réfléchissante 3 est dirigée vers l'extérieur face à l'usager et une position de repos représentée à la figure 2 dans laquelle la plaque 2 a pivoté d'un angle au moins égal à 90° de manière à présenter sa face noire 4 vers l'extérieur.Each elementary cell is essentially constituted by a
Une fibre optique 6 alimentée à l'une de ses extrémités par une source de lumière puissante, a son autre extrémité de sortie 7 disposée derrière la plaque 2 qui comporte un trou 8 disposé en regard de l'extrémité 7 de la fibre 6 lorsque la plaque 3 est en position active représentée à la figure 1. Le diamètre de ce trou est au moins déterminé pour laisser passer entièrement le faisceau 9 émis par l'extrémité 7 de la fibre optique 6, faisceau dont l'angle solide est par exemple de 12°.An optical fiber 6 supplied at one of its ends by a powerful light source, has its
Avantageusement, l'extrémité 7 de la fibre optique 6 traverse le circuit imprimé support 1 perpendiculairement à ce dernier et est fixée sur ledit circuit imprimé 1. L'extrémité 7 de la fibre optique 6 étant située très près du circuit imprimé 1, on obtient un positionnement précis de l'extrémité 7 et, par suite, du faisceau 9 qu'elle émet.Advantageously, the
La figure 3 représente une forme de réalisation de l'invention basée sur le principe de la cellule élémentaire des figures 1 et 2, dans laquelle l'extrémité 7 de la fibre optique 6 est amenée au voisinage de la plaque pivotante 2 et est munie d'une lentille 11. Les éléments correspondants portent les mêmes repères que ceux des figures 1 et 2 et ne sont pas à nouveau décrits. De manière connue, cette lentille 11 est supportée par un manchon 12 s'engageant sur l'extrémité de la fibre optique 6. Grâce à cette disposition, le trou 13 aménagé dans la plaque 2 est de dimensions beaucoup plus réduites et cela limite la perte de surface réfléchissante 3 dûe à l'utilisation de la fibre optique. Par ailleurs, ceci améliore le fonctionnement de la cellule élémentaire, en particulier lorsque le soleil est de face.FIG. 3 represents an embodiment of the invention based on the principle of the elementary cell of FIGS. 1 and 2, in which the
On voit également sur la figure 3 que la plaque semi-réfléchissante 2 ne peut plus basculer complètement comme dans l'exemple de la revendication 1 puisque la fibre optique vient au voisinage de ladite plaque lorsqu'elle est en position réfléchissante et que l'extrémité 7 de la fibre optique avec le manchon 12 s'oppose à la rotation de la plaque semi-réfléchissante 2. Dans cette position de non fonctionnement qui est représentée en trait interrompu sur la figure 3, la plaque semi réfléchissante 2 n'occulte pas le faisceau de la fibre optique 6. C'est pourquoi on prévoit sur la face noire 4 de la pastille semi-réfléchissante 2 un élément d'obturation qui est constitué par exemple par un élément plat fixé perpendiculairement sur la face noire 4. On voit qu'en position de non fonctionnement de la pastille semi-réfléchissante 2, cet élément 14 vient s'interposer sur le trajet du faisceau lumineux issu de la fibre optique 6. Bien entendu, la face 15 de cet élément d'obturation 14 qui est dirigée vers l'extérieur dans la position de non utilisation est non réfléchissante. Cet élément d'obturation peut être par exemple d'une feuille en matière synthétique telle que celle connue sous le nom commercial de MYLAR, ce qui permet de réaliser très facilement et à un faible coût cet élément d'obturation.It can also be seen in FIG. 3 that the
Pour améliorer la perception à distance du dispositif d'affichage, on peut disposer plusieurs fibres optiques côte à côte, dans chaque cellule élémentaire. Dans ce cas, comme représenté sur la figure 4, on prévoit un trou de dimensions plus importantes dans la plaque 2, par exemple un trou allongé comme représenté en 16 sur la figure 4.To improve the remote perception of the display device, several optical fibers can be placed side by side, in each elementary cell. In this case, as shown in FIG. 4, a hole of larger dimensions is provided in the
Avantageusement, toutes les fibres optiques des cellules d'affichage constituant un panneau d'affichage sont alimentées par une source lumineuse commune deforte puissance; les extrémités amont de l'ensemble des fibres optiques 6 peuvent être ramenées devant la source lumineuse servant à éclairer les plaques réfléchissantes 2. Dans ce cas, les modifications à apporter à un panneau d'affichage classique à plaques pivotantes sont limitées à l'implantation des fibres opitques 6.Advantageously, all the optical fibers of the display cells constituting a display panel are supplied by a common light source of high power; the upstream ends of the set of optical fibers 6 can be brought in front of the light source used to illuminate the
Pour améliorer l'agressivité des panneaux d'affichage constitués de cellules selon l'invention, on peut alimenter les fibres optiques par une source lumineuse jaune ou rouge par exemple; on peut également munir les trous 8, 13 et 16 d'une paroi translucide colorée.To improve the aggressiveness of display panels made up of cells according to the invention, the optical fibers can be supplied with a yellow or red light source for example; it is also possible to provide the
On voit que l'invention permet d'obtenir un panneau d'affichage particulièrement fiable puisqu'il estbasé sur la technologie des panneaux d'affichage à plaques réfléchissantes pivotantes dont la fiabilité est très grande; l'adjonction des fibres optiques à de tels panneaux d'affichage n'entraîne aucune modification du fonctionnement de ces panneaux dont la fiabilité est conservée. Par contre, l'intégration des fibres optiques permet d'augmenter très fortement l'agressivité de tels panneaux d'affichage.It can be seen that the invention makes it possible to obtain a particularly reliable display panel since it is based on the technology of display panels with pivoting reflecting plates whose reliability is very high; the addition of optical fibers to such display panels does not modify the operation of these panels, the reliability of which is preserved. On the other hand, the integration of optical fibers makes it possible to greatly increase the aggressiveness of such display panels.
Par ailleurs, l'utilisation d'éléments obturateurs permet d'améliorer le fonctionnement sans gréver fortement le prix de revient, ce qui est particulièrement interessant pour les pastilles semi réfléchissantes de grandes dimensions.Furthermore, the use of obturating elements makes it possible to improve the operation without greatly reducing the cost price, which is particularly interesting for large semi-reflective pads.
Ainsi, pour des panneaux destinés à l'affichage sur des autoroutes, on peut réaliser des panneaux d'affichage qui sont perçus à une distance de 300 mètres en utilisant des fibres optiques dont le diamètre est de 0,6 centimètres.Thus, for panels intended for display on motorways, it is possible to produce display panels which are perceived at a distance of 300 meters using optical fibers whose diameter is 0.6 centimeters.
La description ci-dessus n'a été fournie qu'à titre illustratif et nullement limitatif, et il est évident que l'on peut y apporter des modifications ou variantes sans pour autant sortir du cadre de la présente invention.The above description has been provided for illustration only and is in no way limitative, and it is obvious that modifications or variants can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Claims (6)
- Unit display cell having a plate (2) with a reflecting face (3) and a black face (4), mounted pivotally about a diametric axis (5) between a first position, in which it presents its reflecting face to the outside, and a second position pivoted approximately by 90 degrees with respect to the first, and in which this reflecting face is invisible from the outside, this cell being characterized in that it has a light-emitting end (7) of an optical fibre (6) arranged in the immediate vicinity behind the said plate (2), the plate has an opening (8) arranged opposite the end of the optical fibre when the said plate is in the said first position in which it presents its reflecting face to the outside such that the light emitted by the optical fibre and the light reflected by the reflecting face are then simultaneously visible from the outside, and the said plate has a closing element (14) projecting substantially perpendicularly from its black face to mask the light-emitting end of the optical fibre when the said plate is in the said second position, in which its reflecting face is invisible from the outside, such that no light emitted by the optical fibre (6) or reflected by the reflecting face (3) is then visible from the outside.
- Unit display cell according to Claim 1, characterized in that the light-emitting end (7) of the optical fibre (6) passes through a support printed circuit (1) supporting the display cells of a character matrix, the said end (7) being fixed in the said support printed circuit (1).
- Unit display cell according to one of Claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the end of the optical fibre (6) is provided with a lens (11).
- Unit display cell according to Claim 3, characterized in that the lens (11) is supported by a sleeve (12) arranged around the end (7) of the optical fibre (6).
- Unit display cell according to Claim 1, characterized in that its optical fibre (6) is fed by a light source common to a plurality of optical fibres and formed by a source which also illuminates the plates (2).
- Unit display cell according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the hole (13, 16) is closed by a translucent coloured wall.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT86401583T ATE68282T1 (en) | 1985-07-22 | 1986-07-16 | DISPLAY CELL FOR A DISPLAY SHEET CONSISTING OF A DOT MATRIX. |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| FR8511176A FR2585164B1 (en) | 1985-07-22 | 1985-07-22 | BASIC DISPLAY CELL FOR POINT MATRIX DISPLAY PANEL |
| FR8511176 | 1985-07-22 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| EP0210913A1 EP0210913A1 (en) | 1987-02-04 |
| EP0210913B1 true EP0210913B1 (en) | 1991-10-09 |
Family
ID=9321513
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| EP86401583A Expired - Lifetime EP0210913B1 (en) | 1985-07-22 | 1986-07-16 | Unit display cell for a point matrix display panel |
Country Status (8)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US4833806A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0210913B1 (en) |
| AT (1) | ATE68282T1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1260265A (en) |
| DE (2) | DE210913T1 (en) |
| ES (1) | ES2000546A6 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2585164B1 (en) |
| PT (1) | PT83034B (en) |
Families Citing this family (14)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CA1298082C (en) * | 1988-06-29 | 1992-03-31 | Nei Canada Limited | Fibre optic display device |
| US5055832A (en) * | 1989-06-09 | 1991-10-08 | Dayco Products Canada Inc. | Display element with notched disk |
| US5022171A (en) * | 1989-08-28 | 1991-06-11 | The Staver Company Inc. | Matrix display assembly having multiple point lighting |
| US4974353A (en) * | 1989-08-28 | 1990-12-04 | The Staver Company | Matrix display assembly having multiple point lighting |
| US5050325A (en) * | 1990-05-14 | 1991-09-24 | Dayco Products Canada, Inc. | Display indicator and reed switch |
| US5351065A (en) * | 1990-07-17 | 1994-09-27 | Dambach-Werke Gmbh | Indicator device |
| US5793349A (en) * | 1992-03-20 | 1998-08-11 | Mark Iv Industries Limited | Electromagnetic shutter and cover |
| US5337077A (en) * | 1992-03-20 | 1994-08-09 | Mark Iv Industries Limited | Electromagnetic shutter |
| DE4212125C1 (en) * | 1992-04-13 | 1993-04-01 | Dambach-Werke Gmbh, 7554 Kuppenheim, De | |
| US5790088A (en) * | 1995-12-04 | 1998-08-04 | American Electronic Sign Company | Electronic display element for electronic display device |
| US5898418A (en) * | 1995-03-06 | 1999-04-27 | Kao; Pin-Chi | Magnetically operated display |
| US6677922B1 (en) | 1995-12-04 | 2004-01-13 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Display element having retroreflective surface |
| DK0885437T3 (en) * | 1996-03-05 | 2000-09-25 | Mark Iv Ind Ltd | Display Device and Array |
| US5970199A (en) * | 1996-12-11 | 1999-10-19 | Act Communications, Inc. | Frame for supporting fiber optic cable splices |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3975728A (en) * | 1975-03-28 | 1976-08-17 | Ferranti-Packard Limited | Electromagnetic displays with resiliently mounted components |
| FR2466819B1 (en) * | 1979-10-05 | 1985-11-22 | Pavaux Eric | OPTICAL FIBER DISPLAY DEVICE |
| EP0054336A1 (en) * | 1980-12-11 | 1982-06-23 | American Sign & Indicator Corporation | Matrix display |
| FR2517445A1 (en) * | 1981-12-01 | 1983-06-03 | World Acrilux | Fibre=optic matrix display panel e.g. for road signalling - has array of fibres terminating at respective apertures each selectively blocked by solenoid-activated shutters |
| FR2533342B1 (en) * | 1982-09-22 | 1985-07-26 | Fibres Optiques Rech Technolo | NOVEL MAGNETO-OPTICAL SWITCH, ITS APPLICATION TO ELEMENTARY PARTS OR DISPLAY POINTS AND DISPLAY DEVICES HAVING SUCH OPTICAL DISPLAY POINTS |
| FR2535882B1 (en) * | 1982-11-05 | 1987-08-28 | Securite Signalisation | LIGHT FIBER DISPLAY MATRIX |
-
1985
- 1985-07-22 FR FR8511176A patent/FR2585164B1/en not_active Expired
-
1986
- 1986-07-16 DE DE198686401583T patent/DE210913T1/en active Pending
- 1986-07-16 AT AT86401583T patent/ATE68282T1/en active
- 1986-07-16 DE DE8686401583T patent/DE3681849D1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1986-07-16 EP EP86401583A patent/EP0210913B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1986-07-21 CA CA000514319A patent/CA1260265A/en not_active Expired
- 1986-07-21 US US06/888,586 patent/US4833806A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1986-07-22 ES ES8600494A patent/ES2000546A6/en not_active Expired
- 1986-07-22 PT PT83034A patent/PT83034B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| DE210913T1 (en) | 1987-05-21 |
| CA1260265A (en) | 1989-09-26 |
| ATE68282T1 (en) | 1991-10-15 |
| DE3681849D1 (en) | 1991-11-14 |
| FR2585164B1 (en) | 1988-04-22 |
| PT83034A (en) | 1986-08-01 |
| FR2585164A1 (en) | 1987-01-23 |
| US4833806A (en) | 1989-05-30 |
| ES2000546A6 (en) | 1988-03-01 |
| EP0210913A1 (en) | 1987-02-04 |
| PT83034B (en) | 1990-07-31 |
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