GB2419343A - Vehicle display device - Google Patents

Abstract

A display device (10) comprising a display member (20) for supporting an object, particularly a vehicle (120) or the like, to be displayed, a base member (30) for supporting the display member (20); and support means (40) which attach the display member to the base member, wherein the display member defines a first axis (A) therethrough, the support means defines a second axis (C) therethrough, and the base member defines a third axis (B) therethrough, and wherein the display member is rotatably attached to the support means for rotation about the first and second axes, and the support means is rotatably attached to the base member for rotation about the third axis. Also described is a display assembly comprising a portable unit, such as a trailer or flat-bed, with such a display device mounted thereon. The display member (20) is rotated by a turntable motor (70), the support (40) comprises a two part arm (80,90) raised and lowered by a linear actuator and the support is also rotated by a motor (100) in the base.

Description

DISPLAY DEVICE

The present invention relates to a display device. in particular, the present invention relates to a rotatable display device for displaying an object received thereon.

Rotatable devices are well known in the art, particularly for moving or displaying heavy objects such as vehicles. For example, roadways, car parks, garages, driveways and the like are often too narrow to comfortably turn a car, and there are many prior art rotatable devices designed so as to receive a vehicle thereon and rotate the vehicle so as to alter the orientation of the vehicle, either for the purposes of storage or so as to allow the vehicle to be reoriented before leaving the device and retracing the route from which it approached the device.

Rotatable devices are also well known for the display of a vehicle or the like, for example on a garage forecourt. Such forecourts are often very crowded and the rotatable device is often employed to draw attention to a particular vehicle received thereon. To further draw the eye of an observer, the rotatable device is often continuously rotated to allow an observer to view the object from multiple directions as the object is rotated before them, rather than the device being used merely to orient the object in a selected direction.

Typically, an object can be displayed to greater effect or impact by elevating the object. As a result, elevated display arrangements are know in the art whereby a an object is positioned on a turntable which is then elevated to a raised position and located in said elevated position to allow a 360 view of the object to an observer located nearby.

However, the conventional nature of such display devices makes them commonplace and, as such, lacking in impact for displaying an object in an eye- catching manner. Furthermore, although a 360 view is provided to an observer on lO complete rotation of the object, the fact that the object is elevated means that there can be no appreciation of the appearance of the upper surface of the object. This may be very much to the detriment of the object being displayed, particularly if significant design effort has been invested in this part of the object. Furthermore, the inability for the observer to appreciate a perspective view of the object results in the observer being denied the opportunity to fully appreciate the design of the object as a whole. In a competitive market place, this could mean the difference between success and failure of the object as a marketplace product.

Another disadvantage is where the object is heavy, as is the case where the object being displayed is a vehicle, whether a car, van, truck, bus or wagon. It is often the case that in order to ensure the stability of the displayed vehicle, the display device is either fixed in place or unwieldy and therefore, although it may be portable, cannot be rapidly assembled, disassembled, moved to an alternative location and reassembled quickly. This has the effect that either the object can only be displayed in a fixed location, or significant time and effort is required to alter the location at which the object is displayed. This can be particularly disadvantageous where is it is desired to display a vehicle at a motor show or similar or where the prime site for locating such a display device on a forecourt or similar would block access and therefore need to be moved periodically.

There is therefore a need in the art for a display device to address the problems of

the prior art.

Accordingly, a first aspect of the present invention provides a display device comprlsmg: a display member for supporting an object to be displayed; a base member for supporting the support member; and support means which attach the display member to the base member, wherein the display member defines a first axis therethrough, the base support means defines a second axis therethrough, and the base member defines a third axis therethrough, and wherein the display member is rotatably attached to the support means for rotation about the first and second axes, and the support means is rotatably attached to the base member for rotation about the third axis.

In this way, an object received on the display member may be rotated about two different axes to display an improved three-dimensional view of the object to an observer.

The device may be constructed and adapted for exterior and/or interior use.

Preferably, the display device defines a first plane, and the first axis extends out of the plane defined by the display member. More preferably, the first axis is substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the display member.

In a preferred embodiment, the second axis is not parallel to the first or third axes.

In this way, rotation of the display member about the first axis allows the display member to be moved relative to the support means in a turntable-like manner to display multiple views of an object to a stationary observer in either a discrete or continuously rotating manner. Thus a stationary observer can appreciate different side views of the object being displayed, rather than having to move around the object. This may be particularly advantageous where an object is being displayed in a location in which an observer cannot easily move around the object, for example, in a crowded location such as a garage forecourt where passage around the object may be obstructed, for example, by parked vehicles. A display device according to the present invention also allows different side views of an object displayed thereon to be appreciated by an observer even if the display device is located next to a wall or other immovable object. This is particularly useful as a convenient way of displaying an object in a restricted space.

Further, rotation of the display member about the second axis allows the display member to be tilted relative to the base member so as to provide an improved perspective view of an object received thereon to a stationary observer.

Moreover, rotation of the support means about the third axis allows the support means, and therefore also the display member supported thereon, to be moved relative to the base member in a turntable-like manner, thereby allowing a constantly changing perspective view of a rotating object to be presented to a stationary observer, such that, if the display member is at an angle relative to the base member, rather than the orientation of the tilted display member being fixed relative to a stationary observer, the orientation of the tilted display member may be continuously changed by rotating the support means, and thus the tilted display member, relative to the base member. This allows two stationary observers at different locations relative to the display device to appreciate similar views of an object received on the display member as the support means is rotated relative to the base member.

It is preferably that the second axis is substantially transverse to the third axis.

The support means may include lifting means operable to elevate the display member relative to the base member. Thus, the display member may be in a lowered position to allow ease of movement of an object onto the surface of the display member for display thereon, a feature which is especially advantageous if the object is heavy or bulky. Once the object is in position on the display member, the display member may be raised relative to the base member, thereby elevating the object and allowing an improved view of the object to an observer located nearby. Thus, even if an observer is located with an obstruction between them and the display device, such as other observers or displays, the object will still be clearly visible in an elevated position. Such an elevated display also has the advantage of drawing the eye of an observer to the display device and thus an object being displayed thereon, thus providing improved advertising of the object relative to other non-elevated objects.

lO In this way the present invention may provide a dual motion, raisable and tillable turntable display unit.

The present invention may provide two linked turntable arrangements independently rotatable and separated by a lifting arm. A display platform mounted on or forming part of such an arrangement can be caused to undergoe a large range of movements and therefore to present a large number of different views of the same product from a f xed location.

In embodiments having two turntables they may be powered by two separate motors which work independently of each other, clockwise or anticlockwise, so that if it is desired to utilise the display in a restricted space, the operator is able to programme a reduced range of movements to suit the location.

Preferably, the lifting means comprises a linear actuator operating about a fixed pivot. However, it will be appreciated that any other suitable lifting means known to the skilled person may be used as an alternative.

The lifting means may be driven hydraulically, electrically, pneumatically or by any other suitable means.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the support means has a first member and a second member, the second member being rotatable relative to the first member about the second axis. Such an arrangement allows for a hinged lifting arrangement whereby the second axis may be defined, for example, by the passing through the point of rotation between the first and second members of the support means.

The display member may be rotatable through 360 about the first axis. This allows full rotation of an object displayed on the display member before a stationary observer.

The display member may be rotatable clockwise or anticlockwise about any desired number of degrees about the second axis, dependent on the object being displayed and how or if it is secured to the surface of the display member. For example, where a light-weight object is being displayed and has been secured to the display member, arguably the display member may be rotatable about a full 360 about the second axis. However, for a heavier non-secured object, such as a vehicle or the like, the display member may only be rotatable about a limited range of degrees before the vehicle or the like begins to slip off the surface of the display member. Therefore, when a heavier object such as a vehicle or the like is being displayed, the display member is preferably limited to a maximum angle of rotation of around 30 about the second axis, and more preferably a maximum angle of rotation of around 20 about the second axis.

The support means may be rotatable through 360 about the third axis, thus allowing full rotation of a display member to a stationary observer, particularly in the event that the display member is at an angle relative to the base member.

The present invention may therefore provide a turntable with a lifting action and rotation movement about two axes.

IS The device gives the facility to operate and rotate through three axes, in order to display vehicles or other products (boats, lorries, motorbikes, caravans, agricultural machinery or motorising transport, or any product) to the maximum advantage, affording a global presentation of any item displayed. A vehicle turntable system may therefore be provided.

The device may be fully programmable to allow programming and execution of a series of co-ordinated movements.

The device may incorporate proximity sensors so that if the moving display is approached too closely, a safety cut-out is triggered.

Display lighting may be incorporated in a platform bed using high output LED fittings or able optics which may be mounted on a perimetral rail.

The platform may be equipped with a sound system providing music and/or spoken commentary.

Smoke jets may be provided and could be used to particular effect in conjunction with display lighting.

A display unit may be provided to allow for revolving digital information around a platform through fibre optics allowing the user to change the display/information by simply plugging in a keyboard.

The device may be remotely operable. In this way a user can operate the device from a distance and reduce the risk of injury from the device in use.

Fixed display installations are possible. Alternatively the device may be a mobile display platform.

A further aspect of the present invention provides a display assembly comprising a portable unit with a display device according to a first aspect of the present invention. In this way, the display device may be portable This is particularly advantageous where the object to be displayed is either heavy or large and its site of display is transient. For example, display of vehicles at an exhibition where the display device may only be required on site for a few hours or days, before being required at a different location. Alternatively, if the display device is positioned so as to obstruct access to an area or object, a portable display assembly allows the display device to be readily moved out of the way to allow any necessary access, when required. This may particularly be the case where a vehicle or the like is being displayed on a busy car forecourt where space is limited and the only or best place to locate the display device in site of observers results in obstruction of access such that the display device must be moved in order to permit access off the forecourt of another vehicle or the like.

The portable unit may be any suitable portable unit capable of supporting the display device. For example, the portable unit may comprise a truck flat-bed or a wheeled pallet or a trailer or any other suitable unit known to the skilled person. A truck flat-bed has the additional advantage that the entire display assembly is very readily moved between display sites, whether the desired display sites are located very close together or many miles apart.

In one embodiment the platform is fully mobile by being mounted on a trailer.

Accordingly the platform can be readily towable from location to location. The device may be collapsible at least to some extent. For example, the extremities of the display bed may fold inwards and lock in position to reduce the width for transit.

The trailer or other transport unit may form part of the display device. The device may therefore be formed as an integral part of the transport unit.

By virtue of its mobility and versatility it is possible for this platform to visit multiple locations on the same day, displaying a range of products or to accompany travelling exhibitions of an individual product, while remaining equally effective in a static location.

The mobile device may incorporate one or more stabilising legs to ensure a completely firm and safe base in use.

Locking points may be provided so that the platform cannot be tempered with.

The main trailer support structure may be clad with panels so as to disguise the presence of the transport unit.

The principles of the present invention may also be applied to a stage or the like.

For example, activities such as pop concerts and dramatic products could be performed on a stage formed as a dynamic display platform.

A device according to the present invention may include any one or more of the above-mentioned features in any combination thereof.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure IA is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a display device according to the present invention, showing the display member in a tilted position relative to the base member; Figure IB is a plan view of a base plate forming part of the device of Figure I A; Figure IC is a side view of a turntable lower pivot arm forming part of the device of Figure l A; Figure ID is a plan view of the arm of Figure 1C; Figure IE is a side view of a turntable upper pivot arm forming part of the device of Figure 1A; Figure I F is a plan view of the arm of Figure I E; Figure 1G is a plan view of a turntable support ring forming part of the device of Figure IA; Figure IH is a section taken along line A-A of Figure IG; Figure II shows a plan view of a platform forming part of the device of Figure 1A and a partial section of the platform taken along line A-A; Figure 2A is a plan view of a trailer suitable for use on conjunction with the device ofFigure IA; Figure 2B is a side view of the trailer of Figure 2A; Figure 2C shows a stabilising leg for use with the trailer of Figures 2A and 2B; Figures 3 to 6 are perspective views of the device of Figure 1A shown attached to a trailer of the type shown in Figures 2A and 2B; Figure 7A is a perspective view of a turntable platform formed according to an alternative embodiment; Figure 7B is a perspective view of a display device incorporating the platform of Figure 7A; Figures 8A to 8D are perspective views of a device formed according to an alternative embodiment with a platform shown in various orientations; and Figure 9 is a perspective view of the device shown in Figures 8A to 8D shown with a decorative carcass surrounding a trailer.

Throughout the specific description, the same reference numerals are used to identify the same features of the invention.

Figure lA shows a display device generally indicated 10 comprising a display member or platform 20 for supporting an object to be displayed, a base member 30 for supporting the display member, and support means or a lifting arm arrangement which attaches the display member 20 to the base member 30.

More particularly the device lO comprises: a base plate l l (see also Figure IB) for mounting the device on a trailer or other support; a turntable lower pivot arm 80 (see also Figures 1C and lD); a turntable upper pivot arm 90 (see also Figures lE and lF); a turntable support ring 12 (see also Figures lG and 1H); and a platform lO 20 (see also Figure 11).

The base plate l l receives a support ring 81 of the arm 80. The arm 80 is pivotally connected to the arm as described in more detail below. The arm 90 has a support ring 90a which is connected to the support ring 12 which is in turn mounted in the platform 20.

A turntable drive assembly 70 is provided between the support means 40 and the display member 20. The display member 20 is rotatable about the support means through 360 , such that on operation of the turntable drive assembly 70 the display member 20 rotates about an axis A, thereby providing a full 360 view of an object received thereon to a stationary observer. For example, if a vehicle were to be displayed on the display member, as shown in Figures 3 and 5, and the display member rotated about axis A, a stationary viewer would be able to see a repeating viewing sequence of the near-side, front, off-side and rear view of the vehicle.

The platform 20 is attached to a toothed slowing ring, a cog, the gear box and finally to the motor 70.

The display member 20, or turntable, is supported on a stewing ring such as that used, for example, in a mechanical excavator. However, it will be clear to the skilled person that any other suitable supporting means may be used, such as, for example, opposed angular contact bearings or any other bearing arrangement capable of withstanding the relatively high vertical load and overturning movement.

The stewing ring has internal gear teeth (not shown) machined around its circumference thereby allowing the stewing ring to contact, and interengage with, complementary inter-engagement means on a pinion gear mounted on a vertical shaft. The vertical shaft is, in turn, supported by a flanged bush bearing, before passing through a clearance hole in the upper support arm and connecting with a hollow shaft worm gearbox. It will be clear to the skilled person that deviations from the specific arrangement of the specific embodiment described herewith are possible using standard techniques and components well known in the art.

In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 1, the gearbox is driven by a three phase motor, with the speed of the motor being variable by means of an inverter drive. However, it will be understood that the present invention is not restricted to a three phase motor and may use any other suitable motor known in the art, such as a single phase ac, dc motor with a wound rotor, or a brushless or stepper motor.

Use of a single phase ac, tic motor with a wound rotor or a brushless or stepper motor would allow programmable movement where speed, acceleration, deceleration, position and speed or position and speed relative to other drive means present in the device, or lighting/sound effect associated with the device may all be varied dependent on the use of suitable controlling software.

The base member 30 defines a further axis B therethrough about which movement of the display member 20 is driven by means of a similar arrangement to that described above, but with the inclusion of a further helical reduction stage in the gearbox to reduce the output speed.

In this way the turntable may be rotated about the axis B passing therethrough at a speed of, for example, 4rpm while the turntable is being rotated about the axis defined by the base member at a speed of, for example, 1 rpm, thereby providing a stationary observer with a full 360 view of an object displayed on the display member within the quadrant in front of the observer. It should be borne in mind, however, that the speeds of rotation are infinitely and independently variable over a 10:1 turndown ratio. Furthermore, the choice of motor and/or gearbox assembly selected can influence the range of variation possible.

The support assembly, or support means 40 comprises a linear actuator in the form of a hydraulic scissor lifting arm having a first member 80 and a second member operating about a fixed pivot 91, the second member 90 being rotatable relative to the first member about an axis C passing though the fixed pivot point 91. The linear actuator pushes the second member 90 away from the fixed first member 80, thereby causing the second member 90 to rotate about the fixed pivot pin linking the two.

The mechanical lifting arm (member 90) is hydraulically powered in the embodiment shown; however, it will be readily appreciated that any suitable drive means known to a person skilled in the art may be used, such as, for example, electrical or pneumatic drive means. One advantage of using, for example, an electrical unit, is that it would allow variation of the angle of tilt of the display unit relative to the support means as the display means is rotated about the axis defined therethrough. If a hydraulic ram or air-operated support assembly is used, a locking pin should be included to prevent bleed down over long periods.

However, this is not a requirement of an electrically powered assembly.

The upper lifting arm 90 joins to the platform 20 at its centre (at the support ring l 2) and therefore the platform is stable when an object is in position.

A further turntable drive assembly 100 is provided between the base member 30 and the support means 40, so as to allow rotational movement of the support means relative to the base member 30. This allows the support means 40, and therefore also the display member 2(), to be rotated relative to the base member 30.

A support member 80 is attached to a toothed stewing ring, a cog, the gear box and fmally to the motor 100.

The motors 70, 100 are independently fed information by two electronic inverter drives. These are fully programmable to vary the speed and dictate the motor actions.

In use the display platform can be driven anti-clockwise or clockwise by the single motor housed virtually unsighted due to its location in the upper lifting arm enclosure. Operation is by pushing either the forward or reverse slew button on a remote control. The lilting arm (two sections) can be driven anti-clockwise or clockwise by the single motor housed virtually unsighted by virtue of its location under the trailer mounting plate 30. Operation is by pushing either the forward or reverse slew button on a remote control.

The base arm unit 40 and turntable 20 may rotate in the same direction or opposite directions, and at different speeds, which are infinitely variable independently over a 10:1 ratio, and the range of variation may be enhanced by the chose or motor and gearbox assembly.

The platform 20 can be elevated when the hydraulic scissor lifting arm is operated by way of a level.

Movement about each of the axes A, B. C can be operated independently, clockwise or anti-clockwise. A swivelling motion can be established about the axes A and B. Referring now to Figures 2A and 2B there is shown a trailer 1 suitable for receiving a device of the type shown in Figure 1A.

The trailer I comprises a frame including a mount 2 for securely receiving the base plate 11 of the device 10. Accordingly the trailer becomes an integral part of the device.

The trailer frame including the mount 2 is hot-dipped galvanized.

Because the motor 100 of the device is positioned below the plate 11, when the plate 11 is mounted on the trailer chassis mount 2 the motor 100 is held concealed below the plate 11 and within the chassis.

All the power to the area above the base level (trailer chassis) is fed through a 12- way electrical slip ring to power the four limit switcher, lights and upper motor.

Referring also to Figure 2C, the trailer 1 may be provided with one or more retractable stabilising legs 3 which can be lowered when the device is in use and raised for transport.

In Figures 3 to 6, various perspective views of the embodiment of Figure 1 are shown in order to more clearly demonstrate the invention and to show views of the display device 10 in use. Figures 3 and 5 showing the display device supporting a vehicle 120 to be displayed. The display device 10 is shown supported on a four- wheel trailer 110 thereby allowing the display device to be easily transported from location to location. It will be understood that the display device could however be supported on any other suitable support permitting ease of transportation of the display means. Alternatively, the display device could be static for use where portability of the display device is not a consideration.

It will be readily appreciated that the display device 10 may include one or more additional features dependent on the object being displayed, the conditions under which display is taking place and also on the image it is wished to associate with the displayed object. For example, a display device being used to display a vehicle at an exhibition may include one or more additional features such as lighting and lighting effects around the periphery of the display member (particularly, but not exclusively if the display is happening at night or in a dark exhibition hall), branding or artwork/designs applied to any part of the display device (and in particular to the display member itself), a sound system or speakers provided integrally with the display device for projecting music, announcements or voice overs to complement the display, or any other suitable or desirable or eye-catching advertising features and the like which would supplement the sensory impact of the display.

Referring now to Figure 7A there is shown a turntable display platform 197 formed according to an alternative embodiment. The platform 197 comprises a rectangular main body portion 198 of the same general type as the platform 20 shown in Figure 1I.

An elliptical frame 199 extends around the body portion 198. The frame 199 is divided into four tubular arcuate frame sections l99a-d each defining a crescent shape extension section 200a-d corresponding to the four sides of the body portion 198. Cross members 201 extend from the sections l99a-d to rectilinear members 202 extending between the ends of each frame section l99a-d the body portion 198. Panels 203 fit into the sections l99a-d in the spaces between the frame sections 199a-d and members 201, 202. The members 202 are hingedly connected to the sides of the body portion

198 and this allows each extension section 200a-d to be folded down so as to be at 90 to the body portion for transport and/or storage.

Referring now to Figure 7B the platform 197 of Figure 7A is shown forming part of a trailer-based display system 195. The platform 197 is integrally formed with a trailer 196.

The device 195 has a scissor action hydraulic arm so that the platform 197 can be tilted and lowered to allow a car to be driven straight onto the platform and elevated into position.

The panels 203 provide a safe level area onto which an individual can step after they have driven a vehicle onto the platform 197. In addition the panels serve as suitable surfaces to receive lighting arrangements, such as recessed lighting.

In use the platform 197 revolves on one axis A, rotates on another axis B and can be tilted on a third axis C. When a display is terminated by an operator (for example using handheld remote control transmitter), the platform 197 may return automatically to a stowed position.

Referring now to Figures 8A to ED there is shown an alternative display device 295 mounted on a trailer 296, with a platform 297 shown in various orientations.

The platform 297 comprises a rectangular main body portion 298 and four arcuate sections 300a-d extending along each side of the body portion. Each of the sections 300a-d is detachable for transport. The body portion 298 and sections 300a-d are hot zinc galvanised sprayed and may receive a primer coat along with a top coat.

Referring now to Figure 9, the device 295 is shown with the sections 300ad removed. Furthermore, the trailer is shown surrounded by cover panels 304 comprising a decorative platform and skirt to disguise its existence.

The base of the device, including the control boxes, the trailer chassis and wheels is fully enclosed with the stainless steel interlocking panels 301, so that attention is not diverted away from the display. Indeed, the enclosing panels may form part of the display, as they could carry decals and information relative to the exhibited item.

Claims (21)

1. A display device comprising: a display member for supporting an object to be displayed; a base member for supporting the display member; and support means which attach the display member to the base member, wherein the display member defines a first axis therethrough, the support means defines a second axis therethrough, and the base member defines a third axis therethrough, and wherein the display member is rotatably attached to the support means for rotation about the first and second axes, and the support means is rotatably attached to the base member for rotation about the third axis.

2. A display device according Claim 1, wherein the display member defines a first plane, and the first axis extends out of the plane defined by the display 1 5 member.

3. A display device according to Claim 2 wherein the first axis is substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the display member.

4. A display device according to any preceding Claim, wherein the second axis is not parallel to the first or third axes.

5. A display device according to Claim 4 wherein the second axis is substantially transverse to the third axis.

6. A display device according to any preceding Claim wherein the support means includes lifting means operable to elevate the display member relative to the base member.

7. A display device according to Claim 6 wherein the lifting means comprises a linear actuator operating about a fixed pivot.

8. A display device according to Claim 6 or Claim 7 wherein the lifting means is driven hydraulically, electrically and/or pneumatically.

9. A display device according to any preceding Claim wherein the support means has a first member and a second member, the second member being rotatable relative to the first member about the second axis.

10. A display device according to any preceding Claim wherein the display member is rotatable through at least 15 about the second axis.

11. A display device according to Claim 10 wherein the display member is rotatable through at least 30 about the second axis.

12. A display device according to Claim 11 wherein the display device is rotatable through at least 90 about the second axis.

13. A display device according to any preceding Claim wherein the display member is rotatable through 360 about the first axis.

14. A display device according to any preceding Claim wherein the support means is rotatable through 360 about the third axis.

15. A display assembly according to any preceding Claim wherein the direction of rotation of the display member about the first axis is reversible.

16. A display assembly according to any preceding Claim wherein the direction of rotation of the display member about the second axis is reversible.

17. A display member according to any preceding Claim wherein the direction of rotation of the support means about the third axis is reversible.

18. A display assembly comprising a portable unit with a display device according to any preceding Claim mounted thereon.

19. A display assembly according to Claim 12 wherein the portable unit comprises a flat-bed.

20. A display device substantially as hereinbefore described and with reference to the accompanying figures.

21. A display assembly substantially as hereinbefore described and with reference to the accompanying figures.