EP0710414B1 - Device for storing video information displayed on a monitor - Google Patents

Device for storing video information displayed on a monitor Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0710414B1
EP0710414B1 EP94913602A EP94913602A EP0710414B1 EP 0710414 B1 EP0710414 B1 EP 0710414B1 EP 94913602 A EP94913602 A EP 94913602A EP 94913602 A EP94913602 A EP 94913602A EP 0710414 B1 EP0710414 B1 EP 0710414B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
storage medium
adhesive layer
monitor
light
lens
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Expired - Lifetime
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EP94913602A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0710414A1 (en
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Thomas Hohenacker
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Individual
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Individual
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Priority to DE9421630U priority Critical patent/DE9421630U1/en
Publication of EP0710414A1 publication Critical patent/EP0710414A1/en
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    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/27Arrangements for recording or accumulating broadcast information or broadcast-related information
    • GPHYSICS
    • G03PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03CPHOTOSENSITIVE MATERIALS FOR PHOTOGRAPHIC PURPOSES; PHOTOGRAPHIC PROCESSES, e.g. CINE, X-RAY, COLOUR, STEREO-PHOTOGRAPHIC PROCESSES; AUXILIARY PROCESSES IN PHOTOGRAPHY
    • G03C1/00Photosensitive materials
    • G03C1/72Photosensitive compositions not covered by the groups G03C1/005 - G03C1/705
    • G03C1/73Photosensitive compositions not covered by the groups G03C1/005 - G03C1/705 containing organic compounds
    • G03C1/733Photosensitive compositions not covered by the groups G03C1/005 - G03C1/705 containing organic compounds with macromolecular compounds as photosensitive substances, e.g. photochromic
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/35Arrangements for identifying or recognising characteristics with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time, e.g. for identifying broadcast stations or for identifying users
    • H04H60/38Arrangements for identifying or recognising characteristics with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time, e.g. for identifying broadcast stations or for identifying users for identifying broadcast time or space
    • H04H60/41Arrangements for identifying or recognising characteristics with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time, e.g. for identifying broadcast stations or for identifying users for identifying broadcast time or space for identifying broadcast space, i.e. broadcast channels, broadcast stations or broadcast areas

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for storing image information displayed on a partial area of a monitor, in particular a television screen, with a storage medium which can be fastened to the monitor surface by means of an adhesive layer effective on the monitor side.
  • Such a device is known from document US-A-4 613 904.
  • a device is disclosed there by means of which optical signals can be detected via a photocell and then stored as electrical signals. This device can be attached to a monitor using two adhesive strips.
  • a disadvantage of these known methods is that the attraction for the viewer is often not great enough due to the constantly recurring same broadcasting scheme, and that viewer puzzles and viewer surveys cannot be integrated into every type of television program.
  • the invention has for its object to provide a simple and economically producible device with which any type of program can be made more interesting, with which the viewer is encouraged to participate and through which the television stations can receive information about the broadcast participation.
  • the storage medium is made of photosensitive material in a device of the type mentioned.
  • Such a device can be used as follows:
  • the television transmitter emits a symbol, in particular on a black background, at a specific time or permanently at a defined point on the screen.
  • the viewer attaches the device according to the invention to the screen by means of the adhesive layer in such a way that the symbol shown on the screen is covered.
  • the symbol displayed on the screen thereby exposes the photosensitive material integrated in the device according to the invention, whereby the image information of the symbol shown is stored in the device according to the invention.
  • the storage device according to the invention can then be detached from the television screen and sent, for example, to the television transmitter with the stored image information.
  • the storage device In order to be able to manufacture the storage device according to the invention as quickly and economically as possible, it is advisable to build the storage device essentially flat from different layers. For example, in a simple embodiment only an adhesive layer is applied to a photosensitive film. Due to this flat construction, the storage device can also be packed in a space-saving manner and thus transported and sold in a cost-effective manner.
  • the storage medium can be designed as a particularly flexible circular disk, but any number of other contours can also be envisaged. For example, it is possible to give the storage device the shape of a transmitter logo.
  • Photochromic substances are preferably used for the photosensitive material. Photochromic substances are characterized by the fact that they assume a certain color when irradiated with UV light and become transparent when irradiated with visible light.
  • the photochromic material Before the storage process, the photochromic material is irradiated with UV light in order to enable subsequent storage of images or symbols that reflect or emit visible light. Between the irradiation with UV light and the storage process, care must be taken that the photosensitive material is not irradiated with visible light or only for a negligible time.
  • the storage medium can be provided with an opaque layer on the side facing away from the adhesive layer and releasably attached to an opaque carrier material, such as a postcard, with the adhesive layer.
  • the exposure time within which an image is stored on a photochromic layer is preferably approximately 30 minutes.
  • the photosensitive layer consists of several photochromic substances, each of which responds to visible light of different wavelengths, colored images can also be stored in the storage device according to the invention.
  • An advantage of using photochromic materials is that the photosensitive material can be made reusable in a simple manner by exposure to UV light after exposure.
  • a particular advantage when using photochromic substances is that extremely high resolution can be achieved, since only the molecular size of the photochromic substances is decisive for the resolution.
  • the photosensitive layer on its side facing away from the adhesive layer is provided with a silver or gold reflective layer, in particular, which reflects rays that pass through the photosensitive layer back onto the latter. This measure leads to a more intensive exposure of the photosensitive material and thus to shorter exposure times.
  • the photochromic layer When using photochromic substances, it makes sense to design the layer which is attached to the side of the photosensitive layer facing away from the adhesive layer in such a way that it is UV light-transmissive and only absorbs visible light. In this case, the photochromic layer can be brought into a state by irradiation with UV light from the side facing away from the adhesive layer, in which a further storage process may be possible.
  • the adhesive layer is preferably formed as a self-adhesive layer, which is covered in particular by a removable protective film before use of the device.
  • the storage device can be sold without difficulty, and the handling by the viewer is also easy to accomplish.
  • the adhesive layer does not have to be designed as a self-adhesive layer, it is also conceivable, for example, that the memory device adheres to the screen only by means of electrostatic forces.
  • the storage device is at least substantially transparent.
  • a storage device can be used particularly effectively in a method according to point e), since in this case - provided the storage device is designed in such a way that the stored image information is developed immediately - the information displayed by means of partial symbols or a moving point of light is visible to the viewer the side of the storage device facing away from the screen arises. In this case, however, it is necessary to use a material as the storage medium which only has a photosensitive layer on the side facing the screen, since otherwise the extraneous light not coming from the television screen would cause incorrect exposure of the storage device.
  • a photosensitive material which is photosensitive from both sides can be used for the sake of simplicity, since the storage device can then be provided with an opaque layer on the side facing away from the screen, for example. Any text or symbol can then be printed on this layer so that it is visible to the viewer and is then visible to the viewer during the entire time in which the storage device is attached to the screen.
  • the transmitter logo can be displayed, or it would also be conceivable to use this side of the storage device facing away from the monitor as advertising space, which is particularly useful in the case of a method according to c), since the company emblem of that company is attached to the storage device, for example in whose commercial the symbol to be saved is sent.
  • the storage medium is frequency-selective, so that it only reacts to defined light wavelengths, for example to light wavelengths of a certain color.
  • This has the advantage that the symbol to be stored does not necessarily have to be broadcast on a black background, but can appear directly on the broadcast television picture, since the colors of the symbol can be chosen so that they do not or only to a small extent the actual television picture occur, so that the television picture forming the background of the symbol does not cause the storage device to be incorrectly exposed.
  • At least one plastic lens which is preferably designed as a Fresnel lens, can be arranged between the screen and the storage medium. Such a lens can be integrated into the layered structure of the storage device according to the invention without difficulty.
  • the lens can be used, for example, to focus the symbol blurred on the screen so that it is sharply imaged on the storage medium.
  • a lens which is designed as a decoding lens and which decodes a symbol that is shown in coded form on the screen on the storage medium.
  • Such a lens could also preferably be used in a method according to point e), since it is then possible to dispense with representing the symbol to be stored in the form of partial symbols or in the form of a moving light point.
  • the storage device according to the invention can be designed in such a way that the developer making the stored image information visible is integrated in the storage device, or that the stored image information can subsequently be developed by means of a developer layer or developer liquid which can be connected to the storage device.
  • the storage device according to the invention is mounted on a carrier material made of paper, cardboard or laminated cardboard at the time of acquisition by the viewer, which in particular has a postcard format.
  • the storage device can be sold in a particularly handy manner, and at the same time, after exposing the storage device, the viewer has a, in particular postcard-like carrier material on which he can reattach the exposed storage device and by means of which it can be sent back to the television station.
  • the storage device is releasably attached to the postcard-shaped carrier material by means of its adhesive layer.
  • the provision of a protective film covering the adhesive layer can be dispensed with. After the storage device has been exposed, the adhesive layer can also be used again to attach the storage medium to the postcard-shaped carrier material.
  • the carrier material preferably has at least one development area in which a chemical substance for developing the image stored on a storage medium is integrated and on which the storage medium can be attached, in particular by means of an adhesive layer, after exposure.
  • the development of the stored image information takes place immediately after the exposed storage device has been reattached to the postcard-shaped carrier material, as a result of which a separate development of the image information to be carried out by the viewer or by the television station is avoided.
  • the carrier material can be formed in particular from foldable paper or cardboard, which makes it possible to cover the storage device on both sides by a corresponding folding of the carrier material by the carrier material and thus to make it impossible to expose both the front and rear sides thereof. This is particularly advantageous if photochromic materials are used as the photosensitive material which are not protected on the side facing away from the adhesive layer by a layer that is impermeable to visible light.
  • Decoding lens can be made visible to the viewer.
  • Such a decoding lens can be either attach it to the screen using an adhesive layer or hold it in front of the screen in a magnifying glass-like frame, the last alternative being particularly suitable for children.
  • the viewer can then dial a specific telephone number again, for example, or send a specific solution word to the television station.
  • FIG. 1 shows a highly schematic front view of a monitor or a television screen 1.
  • a circular disk-shaped storage device according to the invention is mounted directly on the screen, which covers a partial area of a television image that can be displayed on the screen.
  • FIG. 2 shows a greatly enlarged section A - A through a memory device 2 according to FIG. 1 before it is attached to the screen.
  • the storage device 2 is built up in layers, the adhesive layer 4 on the screen side being covered by a protective film 5 before use of the storage device 2, which protective film 5 can be removed from the adhesive layer 4 in the direction of the arrow by the user of the storage device. With the adhesive layer 4 exposed after the protective film 5 has been removed, the storage device 2 can then be attached to a screen.
  • a focusing lens 7 adjoins the adhesive layer 4, by means of which the television image blurred on the focusing screen is focused in such a way that it is sharply imaged on the photosensitive layer 3.
  • the photosensitive layer 3 and the focusing lens layer 7 there is a layer which acts as a decoding lens and by means of which information displayed on the screen in encrypted form can be decryptedly reproduced on the photosensitive layer 3.
  • the photosensitive layer 3 is followed by a developer layer 6, by means of which the photosensitive layer 3 is developed immediately after its exposure.
  • All layers are preferably made of flexible material, which in particular makes it easier to detach or remove the storage device from a screen.
  • the carrier material 8 can for example be made of cardboard and have the format of a postcard.
  • the storage device according to the invention can be sold in a particularly advantageous manner, since it can be used on the one hand as a carrier material for the sale and on the other hand also as a carrier material for returning the exposed storage devices.
  • the storage devices 2a and 2b are detachably arranged on a specific area of the carrier material 8. Adjacent to this area is a further area 9a and 9b, in which a developer material is integrated, by means of which the storage devices 2a and 2b can be developed after their exposure. After their development, the storage devices 2a and 2b can remain on the areas 9a and 9b and, together with the carrier material 8, can be sent to the television transmitter as a postcard. A single or also a plurality of storage devices can be sold with the carrier material 8. Corresponding to the number of storage devices arranged on the carrier material 8, the same number of development areas 9a and 9b must then also be provided on the carrier material 8.
  • the development areas 9a and 9b on the carrier material 8 can be dispensed with.
  • the address of the television transmitter is preferably printed on the back of the carrier material 8, not shown.
  • the device according to the invention can also be used in connection with a computer monitor.

Abstract

PCT No. PCT/EP94/01161 PCT Filed Apr. 14, 1994 PCT Pub. No. WO94/24785 PCT Pub. Date Oct. 27, 1994A device for storing picture information displayed on a television screen consists of a storage medium made of a photosensitive material which may be secured to the surface of the screen by an active adhesive layer on the screen.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zum Speichern von auf einem Teilbereich eines Monitors, insbesondere eines Fernsehbildschirms dargestellter Bildinformation, mit einem auf der Monitoroberfläche mittels einer monitorseitig wirksamen Haftschicht befestigbaren Speichermedium.The invention relates to a device for storing image information displayed on a partial area of a monitor, in particular a television screen, with a storage medium which can be fastened to the monitor surface by means of an adhesive layer effective on the monitor side.

Eine derartige Vorrichtung ist aus dem Dokument US-A-4 613 904 bekannt. Dort ist eine Vorrichtung offenbart, mittels derer optische Signale über eine Photozelle detektiert und dann als elektrische Signale abgespeichert werden können. Diese Vorrichtung ist mittels zweier Haftstreifen auf einem Monitor befestigbar.Such a device is known from document US-A-4 613 904. A device is disclosed there by means of which optical signals can be detected via a photocell and then stored as electrical signals. This device can be attached to a monitor using two adhesive strips.

Beim Empfang von üblichen Fernsehprogrammen übernimmt der Zuschauer ausschließlich die Rolle des passiven Konsumenten. Da er dabei in keiner Weise aktiv gefordert wird, kommt es häufig vor, daß Fernsehabende weitgehend uninteressant und ohne besondere Höhepunkte verlaufen.When receiving conventional television programs, the viewer only takes on the role of the passive consumer. Since he is in no way actively challenged, it often happens that television evenings are largely uninteresting and without any special highlights.

Dies führt zum einen dazu, daß Fernsehsender aufgrund mangelnder Attraktivität ihrer Programme nicht die gewünschten Einschaltquoten erreichen und zum anderen keine direkte und verläßliche Information über die Anzahl der Zuschauer erhalten können, die eine bestimmte Sendung gesehen haben. Eine derartige Information läßt sich derzeit ausschließlich durch direkte Rückfragen bei einer kleinen, unter statistischen Gesichtspunkten ausgewählten Zuschauergruppe erzielen, von der dann - allerdings nicht mit der gewünschten Zuverlässigkeit - auf die Gesamt-Einschaltquote geschlossen wird.On the one hand, this means that television stations cannot reach the desired ratings due to the lack of attractiveness of their programs and, on the other hand, they cannot receive direct and reliable information about the number of viewers who have watched a particular program. Such information can currently only be obtained by direct inquiries from a small group of viewers selected from a statistical point of view, from whom the overall audience rating is then concluded, although not with the desired reliability.

Zur Beseitigung der erwähnten Nachteile wird versucht, Fernsehsendungen dadurch interessanter zu gestalten, daß in die Sendungen Zuschauerrätsel oder Zuschauerumfragen integriert werden, auf die Zuschauer schriftlich oder telefonisch antworten können. Durch die eingegangenen Antworten erhält der Fernsehsender eine gewisse Information über die jeweilige Sendebeteiligung.To eliminate the disadvantages mentioned, attempts are made to make television programs more interesting by integrating spectator puzzles or viewer surveys into the programs, to which viewers can respond in writing or by telephone. As a result of the responses received, the television broadcaster receives certain information about the respective broadcast participation.

Nachteil an diesen bekannten Verfahren ist, daß der Reiz zum Mitmachen für den Zuschauer aufgrund des immer wiederkehrenden gleichen Sendeschemas oftmals nicht groß genug ist, und daß sich Zuschauerrätsel und Zuschauerumfragen nicht in jede Art von Fernsehsendungen integrieren lassen.A disadvantage of these known methods is that the attraction for the viewer is often not great enough due to the constantly recurring same broadcasting scheme, and that viewer puzzles and viewer surveys cannot be integrated into every type of television program.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine einfach und wirtschaftlich herstellbare Vorrichtung zu schaffen, mit der jegliche Art von Sendung interessanter gestaltet werden kann, mit der der Zuschauer zum Mitmachen animiert wird und über die die Fernsehsender Informationen über die Sendebeteiligung erhalten können.The invention has for its object to provide a simple and economically producible device with which any type of program can be made more interesting, with which the viewer is encouraged to participate and through which the television stations can receive information about the broadcast participation.

Erfindungsgemäß wird diese Aufgabe dadurch gelöst, daß bei einer Vorrichtung der eingangs genannten Art das Speichermedium aus photoempfindlichem Material gefertigt wird.According to the invention, this object is achieved in that the storage medium is made of photosensitive material in a device of the type mentioned.

Eine derartige Vorrichtung läßt sich wie folgt verwenden:Such a device can be used as follows:

Der Fernsehsender strahlt zu einer bestimmten Zeit oder auch permanent an einer definierten Stelle des Bildschirms ein insbesondere auf schwarzem Hintergrund dargestelltes Symbol aus. Der Zuschauer befestigt die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung mittels der Haftschicht in der Weise am Bildschirm, daß das am Bildschirm dargestellte Symbol überdeckt wird. Das am Bildschirm dargestellte Symbol belichtet dadurch das in der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung integrierte photoempfindliche Material, wodurch die Bildinformation des dargestellten Symbols in der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung gespeichert wird. Die erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung kann dann vom Fernsehbildschirm abgelöst und mit der gespeicherten Bildinformation beispielsweise an den Fernsehsender geschickt werden.The television transmitter emits a symbol, in particular on a black background, at a specific time or permanently at a defined point on the screen. The viewer attaches the device according to the invention to the screen by means of the adhesive layer in such a way that the symbol shown on the screen is covered. The symbol displayed on the screen thereby exposes the photosensitive material integrated in the device according to the invention, whereby the image information of the symbol shown is stored in the device according to the invention. The storage device according to the invention can then be detached from the television screen and sent, for example, to the television transmitter with the stored image information.

Die erfindungsgemäß Speichervorrichtung läßt sich auf vielfältige Art und Weise verwenden, wobei einige Beispiele im folgenden genannt werden sollen:

  • a) Der Fernsehsender strahlt an einer definierten Stelle des Bildschirms permanent ein bestimmtes Symbol, beispielsweise sein Sender-Logo, aus, wobei die vom Zuschauer an der betreffenden Stelle des Fernsehbildschirms zu befestigende Speichervorrichtung mit einem schwach lichtempfindlichen Material ausgestattet ist, so daß die Speichervorrichtung durch das ausgesendete Symbol erst nach Ablauf von Stunden oder Tagen in der Weise belichtet wird, daß das ausgesendete Symbol tatsächlich in der Vorrichtung gespeichert ist.
    Die belichtete Speichervorrichtung kann dann beispielsweise vom Zuschauer an den Fernsehsender geschickt werden, wo der Zuschauer an einer Verlosung teilnimmt.
    Auf diese Art wird der Zuschauer dazu motiviert, aus den angebotenen Programmen einen bestimmten Sender möglichst oft bzw. für einen möglichst langen Zeitraum auszuwählen.
    Die erfindungsgemäßen Speichervorrichtungen können in diesem Zusammenhang auch als eine Art "Treue-Punkte" verwendet werden, wobei der Fernsehsender dann beispielsweise die Einsendung einer bestimmten Anzahl von belichteten Speichervorrichtungen fordert, um den Zuschauer an einer Verlosung teilnehmen zu lassen.
    Ein erwünschter Nebeneffekt dieses Prinzips besteht darin, daß der Zuschauer davon abgehalten wird, während einer Sendung mehrmals zwischen unterschiedlichen Programmen zu wechseln, da die auf dem Bildschirm angebrachte Speichervorrichtung durch andere Programme, die das genannte Symbol nicht aussenden, fehlerhaft belichtet würde und eine dermaßen fehlerhaft belichtete Speichervorrichtung nicht zur Verlosung zugelassen würde.
    Durch die Anzahl der eingesendeten belichteten Speichervorrichtungen kann der Sender Rückschlüsse auf die erzielten Einschaltquoten ziehen.
  • b) Die Methode nach a) kann in der Weise abgewandelt werden, daß das Symbol lediglich während der einzelnen Folgen einer bestimmten Fernsehserie ausgestrahlt wird, wodurch der Zuschauer dazu motiviert wird, keine der gesendeten Folgen zu versäumen. Der Fernsehsender erhält dadurch Aufschluß darüber, inwieweit die Zuschauer einer bestimmten Serie die Treue halten.
    Bei den Methoden nach a) und b) kann das ausgestrahlte Symbol einen Code für eine bestimmte Sendung und/oder für einen bestimmten Wochentag enthalten. Bei Einsendung entsprechend belichteter Speichervorrichtungen an den Sender kann in diesem Fall gezielt festgestellt werden, welche Sendung und/oder an welchem Wochentag eine Sendung gesehen wurde.
    Denkbar wäre auch, in das ausgestrahlte Symbol eine wählbare Anzahl von "Treuepunkten" zu integrieren, wobei für den Zuschauer das Ziel darin besteht, möglichst viele Treuepunkte zu sammeln. Einzelne Sendungen könnten dann vom Sender entsprechend ihrer Attraktivität bzw. entsprechend ihrer Dauer mit einer unterschiedlichen Anzahl von Treuepunkten bewertet werden. So könnte für den Zuschauer ein Anreiz dafür geschaffen werden, bei seiner Programmwahl verstärkt Sendungen mit niedriger Einschaltquote zu berücksichtigen.
    Das vorstehend beschriebene Punktesystem könnte bevorzugt unter dem Namen "TV-Miles" betrieben werden.
  • c) Der Fernsehsender gibt beispielsweise in einer Programmzeitschrift bekannt, daß während eines bestimmten Werbeblocks ein einzelner Werbespot mit einem Symbol an einer definierten Stelle des Bildschirms ausgestrahlt wird. Der Zuschauer wird dazu aufgefordert, sobald innerhalb des Werbeblocks der Werbespot mit dem Symbol erscheint, eine erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung auf die betreffende Stelle am Bildschirm zu kleben. Die Lichtempfindlichkeit dieser Speichervorrichtung ist derart bemessen, daß das während dem Werbespot ausgesendete Symbol die Speichervorrichtung so ausreichend belichtet, daß es dort gespeichert ist. Nach dem Werbespot muß der Zuschauer die Speichervorrichtung wieder vom Bildschirm lösen und an den Fernsehsender einschicken, wo er dann beispielsweise wiederum an einer Verlosung teilnimmt.
    Auf diese Weise kann einerseits auf die Einschaltquoten rückgeschlossen werden, andererseits werden die Werbeblöcke attraktiver gestaltet, weshalb der Fernsehsender die Sendezeiten in den entsprechenden Werbeblocks bzw. die das Symbol aufweisende Werbespots zu einem erhöhten Preis verkaufen kann.
    Hinzu kommt, daß der Fernsehsender dem Käufer der Sendezeit die erhaltene Information bezüglich der Einschaltquote anbieten und verkaufen kann.
  • d) Die Methode nach c) kann auch in der Weise abgewandelt werden, daß das Symbol während des gesamten Werbeblocks ausgestrahlt wird, wodurch sich verhindern läßt, daß der Zuschauer während Werbeblöcken, die eine bestimmte Sendung unterbrechen, auf ein anderes Programm umschaltet, da er durch den Anreiz der Teilnahme an einer Verlosung dazu motiviert wird, den Werbeblock anzusehen.
  • e) Während einer Quiz-Sendung wird auf dem Bildschirm ein bestimmter Bereich vom Fernsehsender markiert, auf den eine erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung anzubringen ist. In diesem Bereich wird dann während der Quiz-Sendung beispielsweise ein langsam wandernder Lichtpunkt oder in zeitlicher Abfolge eine Reihe von unterschiedlichen Teilsymbolen dargestellt, wodurch die Speichervorrichtung belichtet wird. In der Speichervorrichtung ist dann entweder die von dem langsam wandernden Lichtpunkt vollzogene Bahn oder das aus der Überlagerung der nacheinander dargestellten Teilsymbole zusammengestzte Gesamtsymbol gespeichert, wobei das gespeicherte Symbol dann eine Antwort oder eine Teilantwort auf eine in der Quiz-Sendung gestellte Publikumsfrage sein kann. Ebenso kann das gespeicherte Symbol beispielsweise Bestandteil einer vom Zuschauer zu wählenden Telefonnummer sein.
    Entscheidend bei dieser Methode ist, daß derjenige Zuschauer, der keine erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung verwendet, das zu ermittelnde Gesamtsymbol zu keiner Zeit am Bildschirm sieht, da dort jeweils nur ein langsam wandernder Lichtpunkt oder ein Teilsymbol dargestellt ist. Um von dem Gesamtsymbol Kenntnis nehmen zu können, muß der Zuschauer demzufolge eine erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung verwenden.
    Weiterhin ist es denkbar, mit dieser Methode gleichzeitig mehrere Symbole ermitteln zu lassen, wobei dann natürlich auch mehrere Speichervorrichtungen an unterschiedlichen Stellen des Bildschirms angebracht werden müssen.
    Auf diese Art und Weise können Quiz-Sendungen interessanter gestaltet und der Zuschauer zum aktiven Mitmachen motiviert werden.
  • f) In einer Quiz-Sendung wird eine Publikumsfrage gestellt, für die beispielsweise drei alternative Antworten angeboten werden. Für jede mögliche Antwort wird auf dem Bildschirm ein bestimmter Bereich markiert. Der Zuschauer wird daraufhin aufgefordert, eine erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung auf denjenigen Punkt zu kleben, der seines Erachtens der korrekten Antwort entspricht. Anschließend wird dann kurzzeitig in dem der richtigen Antwort entsprechenden Bereich ein Symbol ausgesendet, das die verwendete Speichervorrichtung so ausreichend belichtet, daß es zu einer Speicherung des Symbols kommt.
    Hat der Zuschauer die korrekte Antwort gewählt, kann er seine belichtete Speichervorrichtung an den Fernsehsender einschicken und beispielsweise wiederum an einer Verlosung teilnehmen.
    Auch auf diese Weise läßt sich eine Quiz-Sendung anregender gestalten, wobei zugleich, wie auch bei der Methode nach e), wieder Rückschlüsse auf die Einschaltquoten gezogen werden können.
The storage device according to the invention can be used in a variety of ways, some examples being mentioned below:
  • a) The television transmitter permanently emits a certain symbol, for example its transmitter logo, at a defined point on the screen, the storage device to be fastened by the viewer at the relevant point on the television screen being equipped with a weakly light-sensitive material, so that the storage device is able to pass through the emitted symbol is only exposed after hours or days in such a way that the emitted symbol is actually stored in the device.
    The exposed storage device can then be sent, for example, by the viewer to the television station, where the viewer takes part in a raffle.
    In this way, the viewer is motivated to select a particular channel from the programs offered as often as possible or for as long as possible.
    The storage devices according to the invention can also be used in this context as a kind of "loyalty points", the television station then, for example, requesting the sending in of a certain number of exposed storage devices in order to allow the viewer to take part in a raffle.
    A desired side effect of this principle is that the viewer is prevented from switching between different programs several times during a program, since the memory device attached to the screen would be exposed incorrectly by other programs which do not emit the said symbol and would be so faulty exposed storage device would not be eligible for the raffle.
    The number of exposed storage devices sent in enables the transmitter to draw conclusions about the ratings achieved.
  • b) The method according to a) can be modified in such a way that the symbol is only broadcast during the individual episodes of a particular television series, thereby motivating the viewer not to miss any of the episodes broadcast. This provides the television broadcaster with information about the extent to which the viewers of a particular series are loyal.
    In the methods according to a) and b), the broadcast symbol can contain a code for a specific program and / or for a specific day of the week. When correspondingly exposed storage devices are sent to the transmitter, it can be specifically determined in this case which program and / or on which day of the week a program was seen.
    It would also be conceivable to integrate a selectable number of "loyalty points" into the broadcast symbol, the aim being for the viewer to collect as many loyalty points as possible. Individual programs could then be rated by the broadcaster according to their attractiveness or their duration with a different number of loyalty points. This could create an incentive for the viewer to increasingly consider programs with a low audience when choosing their programs.
    The points system described above could preferably be operated under the name "TV Miles".
  • c) The television station announces, for example in a program magazine, that a single commercial with a symbol is broadcast at a defined point on the screen during a specific advertising block. As soon as the commercial with the symbol appears within the advertising block, the viewer is prompted to stick a storage device according to the invention to the relevant location on the screen. The light sensitivity of this storage device is dimensioned such that the symbol emitted during the commercial exposes the storage device sufficiently that it is stored there. After the commercial, the viewer has to detach the storage device from the screen and send it back to the television station, where he then takes part in a raffle, for example.
    In this way, one can draw conclusions about the ratings, on the other hand, the advertising blocks are made more attractive, which is why the television station can sell the broadcasting times in the corresponding advertising blocks or the commercials with the symbol at an increased price.
    In addition, the television broadcaster can offer and sell the information received regarding the audience to the buyer of the broadcasting time.
  • d) The method according to c) can also be modified in such a way that the symbol is broadcast throughout the advertising block, thereby preventing the viewer from switching to a different program during commercial blocks which interrupt a particular program, since he is motivated by the incentive to participate in a raffle to view the advertising block.
  • e) During a quiz program, a certain area is marked on the screen by the television station, onto which a storage device according to the invention is to be attached. In this area, for example, a slowly moving point of light or a series of different sub-symbols is shown in chronological order during the quiz broadcast, as a result of which the storage device is exposed. The storage device then stores either the path taken by the slowly moving point of light or the overall symbol composed of the superposition of the partial symbols shown one after the other, the stored symbol then being an answer or a partial answer to a public question asked in the quiz program. Likewise, the stored symbol can, for example, be part of a telephone number to be dialed by the viewer.
    It is crucial with this method that the viewer who does not use a storage device according to the invention does not see the overall symbol to be determined on the screen at any time, since only a slowly moving point of light or a partial symbol is shown there. In order to be able to take note of the overall symbol, the viewer must therefore use a storage device according to the invention.
    Furthermore, it is conceivable to use this method to have several symbols determined at the same time, in which case, of course, several storage devices must also be attached to different locations on the screen.
    In this way, quiz programs can be made more interesting and the viewer can be motivated to actively participate.
  • f) A quiz broadcast poses a public question for which, for example, three alternative answers are offered. A specific area is marked on the screen for each possible answer. The viewer is then asked to stick a storage device according to the invention to the point which, in his opinion, corresponds to the correct answer. A symbol is then briefly sent out in the area corresponding to the correct answer, which exposes the storage device used sufficiently that the symbol is stored.
    If the viewer has chosen the correct answer, he can send his exposed storage device to the television station and, for example, again take part in a raffle.
    In this way too, a quiz program can be made more stimulating, and at the same time, as with the method according to e), conclusions can be drawn about the ratings.

Die vorstehend angegebenen Methoden stellen nur Beispiele der Verwendung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung dar; es lassen sich eine Vielzahl von anderen Anwendungsmöglichkeiten denken.The methods given above are only examples of the use of the device according to the invention; a variety of other possible uses can be envisaged.

Im folgenden werden bevorzugte Ausgestaltungen der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung beschrieben:Preferred configurations of the device according to the invention are described below:

Um die Herstellung der erfindungsgemäßen Speichervorrichtung möglichst schnell und wirtschaftlich durchführen zu können, empfiehlt es sich, die Speichervorrichtung im wesentlichen flach aus unterschiedlichen Schichten aufzubauen. So kann beispielsweise in einer einfachen Ausführungsform lediglich auf einen photoempfindlichen Film eine Haftschicht aufgebracht werden. Durch diese flache Konstruktion läßt sich die Speichervorrichtung auch platzsparend verpacken und somit auf kostengünstige Weise transportieren und verkaufen.In order to be able to manufacture the storage device according to the invention as quickly and economically as possible, it is advisable to build the storage device essentially flat from different layers. For example, in a simple embodiment only an adhesive layer is applied to a photosensitive film. Due to this flat construction, the storage device can also be packed in a space-saving manner and thus transported and sold in a cost-effective manner.

Das Speichermedium kann als insbesondere flexible Kreisscheibe ausgebildet werden, jedoch lassen sich auch eine beliebige Anzahl von anderen Konturen denken. Beispielsweise ist es möglich, der Speichervorrichtung die Form eines Sender-Logos zu geben.The storage medium can be designed as a particularly flexible circular disk, but any number of other contours can also be envisaged. For example, it is possible to give the storage device the shape of a transmitter logo.

Für das photoempfindliche Material werden vorzugsweise photochrome Stoffe verwendet. Photochrome Stoffe zeichnen sich dadurch aus, daß sie bei Bestrahlung mit UV-Licht eine bestimmte Farbe annehmen und bei Bestrahlung mit sichtbarem Licht durchsichtig werden.Photochromic substances are preferably used for the photosensitive material. Photochromic substances are characterized by the fact that they assume a certain color when irradiated with UV light and become transparent when irradiated with visible light.

Vor dem Speichervorgang wird das photochrome Material mit UV-Licht bestrahlt, um so eine anschließende Speicherung von Bildern bzw. Symbolen zu ermöglichen, die sichtbares Licht reflektieren bzw. aussenden. Zwischen der Bestrahlung mit UV-Licht und dem Speichervorgang muß dafür gesorgt werden, daß das photoempfindliche Material nicht oder nur für eine vernachlässigbare Zeit mit sichtbarem Licht bestrahlt wird. Zu diesem Zweck kann das Speichermedium auf der der Haftschicht abgewandten Seite mit einer lichtundurchlässigen Schicht versehen und mit der Haftschicht auf einem lichtundurchlässigen Trägermaterial, wie zum Beispiel einer Postkarte, lösbar befestigt werden.Before the storage process, the photochromic material is irradiated with UV light in order to enable subsequent storage of images or symbols that reflect or emit visible light. Between the irradiation with UV light and the storage process, care must be taken that the photosensitive material is not irradiated with visible light or only for a negligible time. For this purpose, the storage medium can be provided with an opaque layer on the side facing away from the adhesive layer and releasably attached to an opaque carrier material, such as a postcard, with the adhesive layer.

Die Belichtungszeit, innerhalb deren eine Speicherung eines Bildes auf einer photochromen Schicht erfolgt, beträgt vorzugsweise ungefähr 30 Minuten.The exposure time within which an image is stored on a photochromic layer is preferably approximately 30 minutes.

Wenn die photoempfindliche Schicht aus mehreren photochromen Stoffen besteht, die jeweils auf sichtbares Licht unterschiedlicher Wellenlänge ansprechen, können in der erfindungsgemäßen Speichervorrichtung auch farbige Bilder gespeichert werden.If the photosensitive layer consists of several photochromic substances, each of which responds to visible light of different wavelengths, colored images can also be stored in the storage device according to the invention.

Ein Vorteil bei der Verwendung von photochromen Stoffen besteht darin, daß das photoempfindliche Material auf einfache Weise durch Bestrahlung mit UV-Licht nach einer erfolgten Belichtung wiederverwendbar gemacht werden kann.An advantage of using photochromic materials is that the photosensitive material can be made reusable in a simple manner by exposure to UV light after exposure.

Ein besonderer Vorteil bei der Verwendung von photochromen Stoffen besteht darin, daß eine extrem hohe Auflösung erzielbar ist, da für die Auflösung lediglich die Molekülgröße der photochromen Stoffe maßgeblich ist.A particular advantage when using photochromic substances is that extremely high resolution can be achieved, since only the molecular size of the photochromic substances is decisive for the resolution.

Bei einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform wird die photoempfindliche Schicht auf ihrer der Haftschicht abgewandten Seite mit einer insbesondere silbernen oder goldenen reflektierenden Schicht versehen, welche Strahlen, die durch die photoempfindliche Schicht hindurchdringen, wieder auf diese zurückreflektiert. Diese Maßnahme führt zu einer intensiveren Belichtung des photoempfindlichen Materials und somit zu kürzeren Belichtungszeiten.In a preferred embodiment, the photosensitive layer on its side facing away from the adhesive layer is provided with a silver or gold reflective layer, in particular, which reflects rays that pass through the photosensitive layer back onto the latter. This measure leads to a more intensive exposure of the photosensitive material and thus to shorter exposure times.

Bei der Verwendung von photochromen Stoffen ist es sinnvoll, diejenige Schicht, die auf der der Haftschicht abgewandten Seite der photoempfindlichen Schicht angebracht ist, so auszubilden, daß sie UV-licht-durchlässig ist und lediglich sichtbares Licht absorbiert. In diesem Fall kann die photochrome Schicht durch Bestrahlung mit UV-Licht von der der Haftschicht abgewandten Seite aus in einen Zustand versetzt werden, in dem ein ggf. weiterer Speichervorgang möglich ist.When using photochromic substances, it makes sense to design the layer which is attached to the side of the photosensitive layer facing away from the adhesive layer in such a way that it is UV light-transmissive and only absorbs visible light. In this case, the photochromic layer can be brought into a state by irradiation with UV light from the side facing away from the adhesive layer, in which a further storage process may be possible.

Weiterhin ist es möglich, die Frequenzselektivität des photoempfindlichen Materials durch vorgeschaltete Farbfilter zu beeinflussen. Durch das Vorschalten von Graufiltern kann die Intensität des auf das photoempfindliche Material auftreffenden Lichtes verringert werden, wodurch sich eine ebenfalls verringerte Empfindlichkeit des photoempfindlichen Materials ergibt.It is also possible to influence the frequency selectivity of the photosensitive material by upstream color filters. By adding gray filters, the intensity of the light striking the photosensitive material can be reduced, which also results in a reduced sensitivity of the photosensitive material.

Die Haftschicht wird bevorzugt als Selbstklebeschicht ausgebildet, die insbesondere vor Benutzung der Vorrichtung durch einen abziehbaren Schutzfilm abgedeckt ist. In dieser Form kann die Speichervorrichtung ohne Schwierigkeiten verkauft werden, wobei zudem die Handhabung durch den Zuschauer ohne Schwierigkeiten zu bewerkstelligen ist.The adhesive layer is preferably formed as a self-adhesive layer, which is covered in particular by a removable protective film before use of the device. In this form, the storage device can be sold without difficulty, and the handling by the viewer is also easy to accomplish.

Die Haftschicht muß jedoch nicht als Selbstklebeschicht ausgebildet sein, es läßt sich beispielsweise auch denken, daß die Speichervorrichtung lediglich mittels elektrostatischer Kräfte am Bildschirm haftet.However, the adhesive layer does not have to be designed as a self-adhesive layer, it is also conceivable, for example, that the memory device adheres to the screen only by means of electrostatic forces.

In einer weiteren bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung wird die Speichervorrichtung zumindest im wesentlichen transparent ausgebildet. Eine derartige Speichervorrichtung läßt sich besonders effektvoll bei einer Methode nach Punkt e) verwenden, da in diesem Fall - sofern die Speichervorrichtung so ausgebildet ist, daß die gespeicherte Bildinformation sofort entwickelt wird - die mittels Teilsymbolen oder einem wandernden Lichtpunkt dargestellte Information für den Zuschauer sichtbar auf der dem Bildschirm abgewandten Seite der Speichervorrichtung entsteht. Für diesen Fall ist es allerdings nötig, als Speichermedium ein Material zu verwenden, das lediglich auf der dem Bildschirm zugewandten Seite eine photoempfindliche Schicht besitzt, da anderenfalls das nicht vom Fernsehbildschirm herrührende Fremdlicht eine fehlerhafte Belichtung der Speichervorrichtung bewirken würde.In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the storage device is at least substantially transparent. Such a storage device can be used particularly effectively in a method according to point e), since in this case - provided the storage device is designed in such a way that the stored image information is developed immediately - the information displayed by means of partial symbols or a moving point of light is visible to the viewer the side of the storage device facing away from the screen arises. In this case, however, it is necessary to use a material as the storage medium which only has a photosensitive layer on the side facing the screen, since otherwise the extraneous light not coming from the television screen would cause incorrect exposure of the storage device.

Wenn kein transparentes Speichermedium verwendet wird, kann der Einfachheit halber ein von beiden Seiten lichtempfindliches photoempfindliches Material verwendet werden, da die Speichervorrichtung dann beispielsweise auf der dem Bildschirm abgewandten Seite mit einer lichtundurchlässigen Schicht versehen werden kann. Auf dieser Schicht kann dann für den Zuschauer sichtbar ein beliebiger Text oder ein beliebiges Symbol aufgedruckt sein, das für den Zuschauer dann während der gesamten Zeit, in der die Speichervorrichtung auf dem Bildschirm angebracht ist, sichtbar ist. Es kann beispielsweise das Sender-Logo dargestellt werden, oder es wäre auch denkbar, diese dem Monitor abgewandte Seite der Speichervorrichtung als Werbefläche zu verwenden, was insbesondere bei einer Methode nach c) sinnvoll ist, da hier auf der Speichervorrichtung beispielsweise das Firmenemblem derjenigen Firma angebracht werden kann, in dessen Werbespot das zu speichernde Symbol gesendet wird.If no transparent storage medium is used, a photosensitive material which is photosensitive from both sides can be used for the sake of simplicity, since the storage device can then be provided with an opaque layer on the side facing away from the screen, for example. Any text or symbol can then be printed on this layer so that it is visible to the viewer and is then visible to the viewer during the entire time in which the storage device is attached to the screen. For example, the transmitter logo can be displayed, or it would also be conceivable to use this side of the storage device facing away from the monitor as advertising space, which is particularly useful in the case of a method according to c), since the company emblem of that company is attached to the storage device, for example in whose commercial the symbol to be saved is sent.

Weiterhin ist es möglich, das Speichermedium frequenzselektiv auszubilden, so daß es nur auf definierte Lichtwellenlängen, beispielsweise auf Lichtwellenlängen einer bestimmten Farbe reagiert. Dies bringt den Vorteil mit sich, daß das zu speichernde Symbol nicht zwangsläufig auf einem schwarze Hintergrund ausgestrahlt werden muß, sondern direkt auf dem ausgestrahlten Fernsehbild erscheinen kann, da die Farben des Symbols so gewählt werden können, daß sie nicht oder nur in geringem Maße auf dem tatsächlichen Fernsehbild vorkommen, so daß durch das den Hintergrund des Symbols bildende Fernsehbild keine Fehlbelichtung der Speichervorrichtung erfolgt.Furthermore, it is possible to design the storage medium to be frequency-selective, so that it only reacts to defined light wavelengths, for example to light wavelengths of a certain color. This has the advantage that the symbol to be stored does not necessarily have to be broadcast on a black background, but can appear directly on the broadcast television picture, since the colors of the symbol can be chosen so that they do not or only to a small extent the actual television picture occur, so that the television picture forming the background of the symbol does not cause the storage device to be incorrectly exposed.

Zwischen dem Bildschirm und dem Speichermedium kann zumindest eine Kunststofflinse angeordnet werden, die vorzugsweise als Fresnel-Linse ausgebildet ist. Eine derartige Linse läßt sich ohne Schwierigkeiten in den schichtartigen Aufbau der erfindungsgemäßen Speichervorrichtung integrieren.At least one plastic lens, which is preferably designed as a Fresnel lens, can be arranged between the screen and the storage medium. Such a lens can be integrated into the layered structure of the storage device according to the invention without difficulty.

Die Linse kann beispielsweise dazu dienen, das auf dem Bildschirm unscharf abgebildete Symbol so zu fokussieren, daß es auf dem Speichermedium scharf abgebildet wird.The lens can be used, for example, to focus the symbol blurred on the screen so that it is sharply imaged on the storage medium.

Weiterhin ist es möglich, eine Linse vorzusehen, die als Dekodierlinse ausgebildet isc und die ein auf dem Bildschirm kodiert dargestelltes Symbol dekodiert auf das Speichermedium abbildet. Eine derartige Linse ließe sich auch bevorzugt in einem Verfahren nach punkt e) verwenden, da dann darauf verzichtet werden kann, das zu speichernde Symbol in Form von Teilsymbolen oder in Form eines wandernden Lichtpunktes darzustellen.Furthermore, it is possible to provide a lens which is designed as a decoding lens and which decodes a symbol that is shown in coded form on the screen on the storage medium. Such a lens could also preferably be used in a method according to point e), since it is then possible to dispense with representing the symbol to be stored in the form of partial symbols or in the form of a moving light point.

Die erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung kann so ausgebildet werden, daß der die gespeicherte Bildinformation sichtbar machende Entwickler in die Speichervorrichtung integriert ist, oder daß die gespeicherte Bildinformation nachträglich durch eine mit der Speichervorrichtung in Verbindung bringbare Entwicklerschicht oder Entwicklerflüssigkeit entwickelt werden kann.The storage device according to the invention can be designed in such a way that the developer making the stored image information visible is integrated in the storage device, or that the stored image information can subsequently be developed by means of a developer layer or developer liquid which can be connected to the storage device.

Besonders vorteilhaft ist es, wenn die erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung zum Zeitpunkt des Erwerbs durch den Zuschauer auf einem Trägermaterial aus Papier, Karton oder kaschiertem Karton angebracht ist, das insbesondere Postkartenformat aufweist. Auf diese Weise läßt sich die Speichervorrichtung in besonders handlicher Weise verkaufen, und zugleich hat der Zuschauer nach dem Belichten der Speichervorrichtung ein insbesondere postkartenähnliches Trägermaterial zur Verfügung, auf dem er die belichtete Speichervorrichtung wieder befestigen kann und mittels dem diese zurück zum Fernsehsender geschickt werden kann.It is particularly advantageous if the storage device according to the invention is mounted on a carrier material made of paper, cardboard or laminated cardboard at the time of acquisition by the viewer, which in particular has a postcard format. In this way, the storage device can be sold in a particularly handy manner, and at the same time, after exposing the storage device, the viewer has a, in particular postcard-like carrier material on which he can reattach the exposed storage device and by means of which it can be sent back to the television station.

Weiterhin ist es vorteilhaft, wenn die Speichervorrichtung auf dem postkartenförmigen Trägermaterial mittels seiner Haftschicht lösbar befestigt ist. In diesem Fall kann auf die Vorsehung eines die Haftschicht abdeckenden Schutzfilms verzichtet werden. Die Haftschicht läßt sich nach dem Belichten der Speichervorrichtung auch wieder dazu verwenden, das Speichermedium auf dem postkartenförmigen Trägermaterial zu befestigen.Furthermore, it is advantageous if the storage device is releasably attached to the postcard-shaped carrier material by means of its adhesive layer. In this case, the provision of a protective film covering the adhesive layer can be dispensed with. After the storage device has been exposed, the adhesive layer can also be used again to attach the storage medium to the postcard-shaped carrier material.

Es ist ohne weiteres möglich, auf dem Trägermaterial mehr als eine Speichervorrichtung anzuordnen.It is easily possible to arrange more than one storage device on the carrier material.

Das Trägermaterial weist vorzugsweise mindestens einen Entwicklungsbereich auf, in den eine chemische Substanz zum Entwickeln des auf einem Speichermedium gespeicherten Bildes integriert ist und auf dem das Speichermedium nach erfolgter Belichtung insbesondere mittels einer Haftschicht anbringbar ist. Die Entwicklung der gespeicherten Bildinformation erfolgt in diesem Fall also unmittelbar nachdem die belichtete Speichervorrichtung wieder auf dem postkartenförmigen Trägermaterial angebracht wurde, wodurch ein gesondertes, durch den Zuschauer oder durch den Fernsehsender vorzunehmendes Entwickeln der Bildinformation vermieden wird.The carrier material preferably has at least one development area in which a chemical substance for developing the image stored on a storage medium is integrated and on which the storage medium can be attached, in particular by means of an adhesive layer, after exposure. In this case, the development of the stored image information takes place immediately after the exposed storage device has been reattached to the postcard-shaped carrier material, as a result of which a separate development of the image information to be carried out by the viewer or by the television station is avoided.

Das Trägermaterial kann insbesondere aus faltbarem Papier bzw. Karton gebildet sein, wodurch es möglich wird, durch ein entsprechendes Zusammenfalten des Trägermaterials die Speichervorrichtung beidseitig durch das Trägermaterial abzudecken und so eine Belichtung derselben sowohl über deren Vorder- als auch über deren Rückseite unmöglich zu machen. Dies ist insbesondere dann von Vorteil, wenn als photoempfindliches Material photochrome Stoffe verwendet werden, die auf der der Haftschicht abgewandten Seite nicht durch eine für sichtbares Licht undurchlässige Schicht geschützt sind.The carrier material can be formed in particular from foldable paper or cardboard, which makes it possible to cover the storage device on both sides by a corresponding folding of the carrier material by the carrier material and thus to make it impossible to expose both the front and rear sides thereof. This is particularly advantageous if photochromic materials are used as the photosensitive material which are not protected on the side facing away from the adhesive layer by a layer that is impermeable to visible light.

Die Attraktivität von Quiz-Sendungen oder von für Kinder geeigneten Detektiv-Sendungen läßt sich beispielsweise dadurch steigern, daß Antworten auf bestimmte Fragen oder bei Detektivgeschichten die Lösung eines Falles betreffende Informationen verschlüsselt an einer bestimmten Stelle des Bildschirms dargestellt werden, wobei diese Informationen nur mittels einer Dekodierlinse für den Zuschauer sichtbar gemacht werden können. Eine derartige Dekodierlinse läßt sich entweder mittels einer Haftschicht am Bildschirm anbringen oder sie wird in einer lupenähnlichen Fassung vor den Bildschirm gehalten, wobei die letzte Alternative besonders für Kinder geeignet ist.The attractiveness of quiz programs or of detective programs suitable for children can be increased, for example, by the fact that answers to certain questions or detective stories relating to the solution of a case are displayed in encrypted form at a specific point on the screen, this information being only by means of Decoding lens can be made visible to the viewer. Such a decoding lens can be either attach it to the screen using an adhesive layer or hold it in front of the screen in a magnifying glass-like frame, the last alternative being particularly suitable for children.

Aufgrund der auf diese Weise erhaltenen Informationen kann dann vom Zuschauer beispielsweise wieder eine bestimmte Telefonnummer gewählt oder ein bestimmtes Lösungswort an den Fernsehsender geschickt werden.On the basis of the information obtained in this way, the viewer can then dial a specific telephone number again, for example, or send a specific solution word to the television station.

Weitere vorteilhafte Ausführungsformen der Erfindung sind in den Unteransprüchen angegeben.Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

Ein bevorzugtes Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung wird im folgenden anhand der Figuren beschrieben; es zeigt:

Fig. 1
einen Bildschirm mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Speichervorrichtung,
Fig. 2
einen im Vergleich zu Fig. 1 stark vergrößerten Schnitt A-A durch eine erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung gemäß Fig. 1, und
Fig. 3
die schematisierte Draufsicht auf ein Trägermaterial für eine erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung.
A preferred embodiment of the invention is described below with reference to the figures; it shows:
Fig. 1
a screen with a storage device according to the invention,
Fig. 2
a section AA greatly enlarged in comparison to FIG. 1 through a storage device according to the invention according to FIG. 1, and
Fig. 3
the schematic plan view of a carrier material for a storage device according to the invention.

Fig. 1 zeigt stark schematisiert die Frontansicht eines Monitors bzw. eines Fernsehbildschirms 1. In der linken oberen Bildschirmecke ist direkt auf der Mattscheibe eine kreisscheibenförmige erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung angebracht, die einen Teilbereich eines auf dem Bildschirm darstellbaren Fernsehbildes überdeckt.1 shows a highly schematic front view of a monitor or a television screen 1. In the top left corner of the screen, a circular disk-shaped storage device according to the invention is mounted directly on the screen, which covers a partial area of a television image that can be displayed on the screen.

Fig. 2 zeigt eine stark vergrößerten Schnitt A - A durch eine Speichervorrichtung 2 gemäß Fig. 1 vor deren Anbringung auf dem Bildschirm.FIG. 2 shows a greatly enlarged section A - A through a memory device 2 according to FIG. 1 before it is attached to the screen.

Die Speichervorrichtung 2 ist schichtweise aufgebaut, wobei die bildschirmseitig wirksame Haftschicht 4 vor der Benutzung der Speichervorrichtung 2 durch einen Schutzfilm 5 abgedeckt ist, der vom Benutzer der Speichervorrichtung in Pfeilrichtung von der Haftschicht 4 abziehbar ist. Mit der nach dem Abziehen des Schutzfilms 5 freiliegenden Haftschicht 4 ist die Speichervorrichtung 2 dann an einem Bildschirm befestigbar.The storage device 2 is built up in layers, the adhesive layer 4 on the screen side being covered by a protective film 5 before use of the storage device 2, which protective film 5 can be removed from the adhesive layer 4 in the direction of the arrow by the user of the storage device. With the adhesive layer 4 exposed after the protective film 5 has been removed, the storage device 2 can then be attached to a screen.

An die Haftschicht 4 schließt sich eine Fokussierlinse 7 an, mittels der das auf der Mattscheibe unscharf abgebildete Fernsehbild derart fokussiert wird, daß es auf die photoempfindliche Schicht 3 scharf abgebildet wird.A focusing lens 7 adjoins the adhesive layer 4, by means of which the television image blurred on the focusing screen is focused in such a way that it is sharply imaged on the photosensitive layer 3.

Zwischen der photoempfindlichen Schicht 3 und der Fokussierlinsenschicht 7 befindet sich eine als Dekodierlinse wirkende Schicht, mittels der verschlüsselt auf dem Bildschirm dargestellte Information entschlüsselt auf die photoempfindliche Schicht 3 abbildbar ist.Between the photosensitive layer 3 and the focusing lens layer 7 there is a layer which acts as a decoding lens and by means of which information displayed on the screen in encrypted form can be decryptedly reproduced on the photosensitive layer 3.

An die photoempfindliche Schicht 3 schließt sich eine Entwicklerschicht 6 an, mittels der die photoempfindliche Schicht 3 nach deren Belichtung unmittelbar entwickelt wird.The photosensitive layer 3 is followed by a developer layer 6, by means of which the photosensitive layer 3 is developed immediately after its exposure.

Sämtliche Schichten sind vorzugsweise aus flexiblem Material gefertigt, was insbesondere das Lösen bzw. das Abziehen der Speichervorrichtung von einem Bildschirm erleichtert.All layers are preferably made of flexible material, which in particular makes it easier to detach or remove the storage device from a screen.

Zur Realisierung der Erfindung ist es nicht nötig, sämtliche in Fig. 2 dargestellte Schichten vorzusehen. Essentiell ist lediglich, daß entweder die photoempfindliche Schicht 3 oder die Dekodierlinsenschicht 10 vorgesehen ist, die beispielsweise auch ohne Klebeschicht 4 mittels elektrostatischen Kräften am Bildschirm anbringbar sind.To implement the invention, it is not necessary to provide all of the layers shown in FIG. 2. It is only essential that either the photosensitive layer 3 or the decoding lens layer 10 is provided, which can be attached to the screen by means of electrostatic forces, for example, even without an adhesive layer 4.

Fig. 3 zeigt ein Trägermaterial 8 für zwei erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtungen 2a und 2b. Das Trägermaterial 8 kann beispielsweise aus Karton gefertigt sein und das Format einer Postkarte aufweisen. In dieser Form läßt sich die erfindungsgemäße Speichervorrichtung auf besonders vorteilhafte Weise verkaufen, da sie einerseits als Trägermaterial für den Verkauf und andererseits auch als Trägermaterial zum Rücksenden der belichteten Speichervorrichtungen verwendbar ist.3 shows a carrier material 8 for two storage devices 2a and 2b according to the invention. The carrier material 8 can for example be made of cardboard and have the format of a postcard. In this form, the storage device according to the invention can be sold in a particularly advantageous manner, since it can be used on the one hand as a carrier material for the sale and on the other hand also as a carrier material for returning the exposed storage devices.

Vor der Benutzung der Speichervorrichtungen 2a und 2b sind diese lösbar auf einem bestimmten Bereich des Trägermaterials 8 angeordnet. Benachbart zu diesem Bereich befindet sich ein weiterer Bereich 9a und 9b, in den ein Entwicklermaterial integriert ist, mittels dem die Speichervorrichtungen 2a und 2b nach deren Belichtung entwickelt werden können. Nach ihrer Entwicklung können die Speichervorrichtungen 2a und 2b auf den Bereichen 9a und 9b verbleiben und gemeinsam mit dem Trägermaterial 8 als Postkarte an den Fernsehsender geschickt werden. Mit dem Trägermaterial 8 kann eine einzelne oder auch mehrere Speichervorrichtungen verkauft werden. Entsprechend der Anzahl der auf dem Trägermaterial 8 angeordneten Speichervorrichtungen ist dann auf dem Trägermaterial 8 auch eine gleiche Anzahl von Entwicklungsbereichen 9a und 9b vorzusehen.Before the storage devices 2a and 2b are used, they are detachably arranged on a specific area of the carrier material 8. Adjacent to this area is a further area 9a and 9b, in which a developer material is integrated, by means of which the storage devices 2a and 2b can be developed after their exposure. After their development, the storage devices 2a and 2b can remain on the areas 9a and 9b and, together with the carrier material 8, can be sent to the television transmitter as a postcard. A single or also a plurality of storage devices can be sold with the carrier material 8. Corresponding to the number of storage devices arranged on the carrier material 8, the same number of development areas 9a and 9b must then also be provided on the carrier material 8.

Falls die chemische Substanz zum Entwickeln der gespeicherten Bildinformation bereits in der Speichervorrichtung integriert ist, kann auf die Entwicklungsbereiche 9a und 9b auf dem Trägermaterial 8 verzichtet werden.If the chemical substance for developing the stored image information is already integrated in the storage device, the development areas 9a and 9b on the carrier material 8 can be dispensed with.

Vorzugsweise wird auf der nicht dargestellten Rückseite des Trägermaterials 8 die Adresse des Fernsehsenders aufgedruckt.The address of the television transmitter is preferably printed on the back of the carrier material 8, not shown.

Die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung kann auch in Verbindung mit einem Computer-Monitor zum Einsatz kommen.The device according to the invention can also be used in connection with a computer monitor.

Claims (9)

  1. Device for storing picture information shown on a part area of a monitor (1), in particular of a television screen, comprising a storage medium (3) which can be secured to the monitor surface by means of an adhesive layer (4) effective at the monitor side, characterised in that the storage medium (3) consists of photosensitive material.
  2. Device in accordance with claim 1, characterised in that it is flat and/or substantially circular and/or at least substantially transparently formed, with the adhesive layer (4) being in particular formed as a self-adhesive layer and/or being covered over by a removable protective film prior to use of the device (2).
  3. Device in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a chemical substance (6) is integrated for the development of the stored image; and/or in that the picture information stored in the storage medium (3) can be seen after exposure at the side of the storage medium (3) remote from the adhesive layer (4) and/or at the side facing the adhesive layer (4); and/or in that in that the storage medium (3) is made frequency-selective, so that it responds to defined light wavelengths, in particular to the light wavelength of a specific colour.
  4. Device in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least one plastic lens (7, 10), in particular a Fresnel lens, is arranged between the adhesive layer (4) and the storage medium (3), wherein at least one lens is formed as a focusing lens (7), which sharply images the picture information to be stored onto the storage medium (3), and/or at least one lens is formed as a decoding lens which forms an image in decoded form on the storage medium (3) of a picture information illustrated in coded form on the monitor (1).
  5. Device in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the photosensitive material consists of photochromic substances and is, in particular, sensitive to both UV light and also sensitive to visible light, with it colouring a specific colour on irradiation by UV light, whereas it is transparent on irradiation with visible light; and/or in that the photosensitive material is designed to store coloured picture information, with the photosensitive material containing in particular a plurality of photochromic substances sensitive to light of different wavelength.
  6. Device in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a layer is provided on the side of the storage medium (3) remote from the adhesive layer (4) which reflects the light radiated by the monitor back onto the storage medium (3) ; and/or in that a layer is provided at the side of the storage medium remote from the adhesive layer (4) which absorbs visible light and is made transparent to UV light; and/or in that at least one filter, in particular a grey filter, is provided between the storage medium (3) and the adhesive layer (4).
  7. Carrier material for storage media in accordance with one of the claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the carrier material (8) consists of paper, card, or laminated card, on which at least one storage medium (3) is releasably secured, in particular by means of its adhesive layer, with the carrier material (8) in particular having postcard format.
  8. Carrier material in accordance with claim 7, characterised in that the carrier material has at least one development region (9a, 9b) in which a chemical substance is integrated for the development of the picture stored on a storage medium (3) in accordance with one of the claims 1 to 4 or 6 or 7, and to which the storage medium (3) can be attached after exposure has taken place, in particular by means of its adhesive layer (4).
  9. Device for decoding picture information represented in coded form on a part-area of a monitor, in particular of a television screen, comprising a decoding lens which is securable to the monitor surface by means of an adhesive layer effective at the monitor side, or a decoding lens provided with a handle, with the apparatus in particular having substantially the shape of a commercially conventional magnifying glass.
EP94913602A 1993-04-14 1994-04-14 Device for storing video information displayed on a monitor Expired - Lifetime EP0710414B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE9421630U DE9421630U1 (en) 1993-04-14 1994-04-14 Device for storing image information displayed on a monitor

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE4312185A DE4312185A1 (en) 1993-04-14 1993-04-14 Device for storing image information displayed on a monitor
DE4312185 1993-04-14
PCT/EP1994/001161 WO1994024785A1 (en) 1993-04-14 1994-04-14 Device for storing video information displayed on a monitor

Publications (2)

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EP0710414A1 EP0710414A1 (en) 1996-05-08
EP0710414B1 true EP0710414B1 (en) 1997-11-05

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EP94913602A Expired - Lifetime EP0710414B1 (en) 1993-04-14 1994-04-14 Device for storing video information displayed on a monitor

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US (1) US5801748A (en)
EP (1) EP0710414B1 (en)
JP (1) JP3564609B2 (en)
KR (1) KR100355022B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1073314C (en)
AT (1) ATE160065T1 (en)
AU (1) AU677322B2 (en)
BR (1) BR9406170A (en)
CA (1) CA2159818C (en)
DE (2) DE4312185A1 (en)
DK (1) DK0710414T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2108991T3 (en)
FI (1) FI111581B (en)
GR (1) GR3025340T3 (en)
NO (1) NO312150B1 (en)
NZ (1) NZ265283A (en)
RU (1) RU2151466C1 (en)
WO (1) WO1994024785A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (7)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE4439264A1 (en) * 1994-11-03 1996-05-09 Thomas Hohenacker Device for storing image information displayed on a monitor
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0710414A1 (en) 1996-05-08
FI111581B (en) 2003-08-15
FI954831A0 (en) 1995-10-11
NZ265283A (en) 1996-09-25
AU677322B2 (en) 1997-04-17
KR100355022B1 (en) 2003-01-24
WO1994024785A1 (en) 1994-10-27
NO954077L (en) 1995-10-13
ES2108991T3 (en) 1998-01-01
GR3025340T3 (en) 1998-02-27
DK0710414T3 (en) 1997-12-22
JPH08509328A (en) 1996-10-01
NO312150B1 (en) 2002-03-25
DE59404545D1 (en) 1997-12-11
CN1124551A (en) 1996-06-12
CA2159818C (en) 2003-09-16
BR9406170A (en) 1996-01-09
DE4312185A1 (en) 1994-10-20
US5801748A (en) 1998-09-01
JP3564609B2 (en) 2004-09-15
ATE160065T1 (en) 1997-11-15
CN1073314C (en) 2001-10-17
CA2159818A1 (en) 1994-10-27
RU2151466C1 (en) 2000-06-20
AU6569094A (en) 1994-11-08
FI954831A (en) 1995-10-11
NO954077D0 (en) 1995-10-13

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