SE507473C2 - Coordination method for providing displays in public areas - Google Patents

Abstract

The display system has projectors (22) at a number of public places, e.g. railway stations. The projectors are connected and controlled by local computers (34,38) that are linked through a communication system, e.g. radio (14), to a central computer system (10). Projectors are many places of different types can be linked to this system. Also connected to the central system are information mediators (24). These may be advertisers or any other source requiring to present public displays. The information suppliers can be allowed to directly book dispaly time slots through the central computer which then organised the distribution of the display material.

Description

15 20 25 30 507 473 2 images and sound in an appealing way, often with fast image changes and overlaps so that spectators do not run the risk of being bored, as with conventional exposure with slide projectors. These systems can have a rather complicated and advanced computer control. Unfortunately, however, they are static in such a motto that they are displayed in one and the same room and are controlled at the place of exposure. The exposure must be carefully planned in advance, which planning is usually performed by experts in the field of technology to obtain a finished exposure product. When, for example, a company wishes to change its exposure with a new series of images combined with sound, it again takes the static process of hiring experts to program and arrange the new exposure.

In slide shows with slide projectors in one and the same room, the same problem arises as above, with the customer of the exposure having very little opportunity to influence the exposure, especially in real time. The slide shows are aimed at a limited public and for the audience concerned are scheduled screenings that expose the same information material.

It is not aimed at a variety of people, as is the case on a platform in a train station, metro or in a train station. In such places, the information should be able to be disseminated and also be different in different places within the mentioned stations and be quickly subject to updating and changes. If the information at said stations is not coordinated in an efficient manner, it often happens that displays which are to show exposures are controlled with a static exposure, which for example shows the time for the next exposure or a pause image, ie dead time.

This is experienced as annoying by travelers, who often sit for long periods of time in waiting halls or stand on platforms. It is also not compatible with good economy that expensive equipment for exposing information is not used to a greater extent.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is an exemplary system in which external transmitters of real-time information can dynamically direct exposure instructions to a larger public at various locations located at any distance from each other via projectors which expose information on displays intended for this purpose.

Furthermore, the object of the invention is that it enables the design of images and messages in accordance with modern digital technology, which allows a fast communication. Yet another object of the invention is that, for example, an image or other information can be exchanged, in practice as often as desired, in real time, which allows direct and immediate communication and that identical or specific information is displayed in places located at any distance from each other and that message information can be alternated with eg advertising spots. In order to practice the present invention, there is provided a method of coordinating and controlling projectors in a digital information system for exposing information on at least one means of exposure via at least one projector for each means of exposure, wherein exposure is effected on places available to the public.

Subscriptions of information for exposure with subscriptions are connected to a computerized control center via data and telecommunications interfaces for transmitting the information for a whole day, which control center has communication interfaces with computerized bodies located in connection with said locations for coordination and control of projectors.

The control center can create and update a exposure list in real time with instruction fields for control instructions via in time dynamic booking of information for exposure from intermediaries with driver means connected to the subscription, which are transparent for information transfer to the control center's driver means for information transmission in the system.

The exposure list with included control instructions coordinates and controls the projectors in terms of what is to be exposed, when it is to be exposed, where it is to be exposed and for how long it is to be exposed, and ensures that each projector can be controlled independently to receive the same or different information according to the exposure list. for exposure of the respective projector through the computerized means.

The administrator of the digital information system can update the exposure list with any information at any time, whereby the dynamic booking can be changed or delayed.

The projector may also interrupt exposure of information when its assigned exposure means or the projector is visually inaccessible in a public place. The projector's lens can then be covered by a protective device in the event of a feared or detected presence of such, which risks reaching the lens.

The projectors are in one embodiment arranged a projector computer which controls and feeds exposures to the projectors controlled by a server included in said computerized means, which projector computer has a buffer memory connected, which is filled with subsequent exposures while the exposure currently controlled in the projector emptied of buffer memory.

Alternatively, a server included in said computerized means is arranged a projector computer which controls and feeds exposures to the projectors, which projector computer has a buffer memory connected, which is topped up with subsequent exposures while the exposure provided for the moment is controlled out in the projector is emptied from the buffer memory.

Furthermore, a server, located in a specific location, included in a computerized body, comprises databases and that information in the databases concerning exposures in the exposure list is copied in databases of the server in any number of computerized bodies located in another location.

In one embodiment, the exposure list may comprise reserved instruction fields for updating with control instructions via the intermediary's interface, and the control instructions may be placed in a waiting queue, if the exposure list currently lacks instruction fields for updating instructions.

In one embodiment of the invention, a switch or switch detects if a station computer is out of order, the projectors controlled by the station computer being controlled by a station computer located elsewhere.

Another embodiment in the event of an interruption in the exposure of information when the exposure means is obscured for the projector or that the projector is obscured can also be used as "feedback" and monitoring in statistical analyzes by an administrator of the system as to whether vehicles follow the timetable.

The computerized means consist in one embodiment of an electronic display with control computer, wherein projectors consist of electronic displays.

The present invention also provides an apparatus for practicing the above method, which comprises the above-mentioned means and an exposure manager which creates the exposure list.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURE Further, the text refers to the accompanying drawing figure for a better understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, in which the diagram schematically illustrates a system for coordinating and controlling projectors in a digital information system for exposing information according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a method for dynamically coordinating and controlling projectors in a digital information system for exposing information on at least one means of exposure via at least one projector for each means of exposure, the exposure being provided at locations accessible to public. Furthermore, a device for carrying out the same is described.

In the present description, the implementation of the invention is limited to embodiments pertaining to metro stations, but for that purpose the invention as such is not limited to these embodiments. As previously pointed out, the system according to the invention is useful in places where a larger public resides, in addition to subway stations such as train stations, airport stations, places located outdoors, etc.

For a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, reference is now made to the figure which schematically illustrates a system 10 for coordinating and controlling projectors in a digital information system for exposing information on displays such as free-standing film screens, wall-mounted screens, walls and other screens or other devices to reproduce or expose image information in the form of text, still images, moving images, etc. (displays are not shown in the figure).

The system generally consists of a control center 12 with a communication interface 14, which connects an unlimited number of computerized means 16, 18, 20, which computerized means are placed at any distance from each other to control projectors 22, the projector images of which are exposed in public places according to above.

The figure also illustrates how an advertising agency through a computer 24 is connected to the control center 12 via a modem 26. Although only one modem is illustrated as connected to the control center's central computer 28, it is understood, according to current technology, that modem poles, telephone exchanges and other similar devices can be used for the purpose.

The central computer 28 in the control center 12 also comprises databases 30, here only two are shown. The databases 30 may be externally connected to the central computer. Furthermore, the control center comprises workstations 32, preferably connected to the central computer 28 via some LAN (Local Area Network) according to known techniques. Workstation series 32 is used by the personnel operating the control center 12 to monitor, control, maintain and update functions of the central computer with its databases. The administrator of the control center 12 can submit control instructions for controlling projectors via the workstations, for example when he goes out with information specifically aimed at, for example, passengers and passengers transported by boat, train, metro, plane or other vehicle traffic, who need specific information. The information may apply to arrival times and departure times for vehicles that carry passenger traffic.

The administrator controls internally how, what, when, or where the information is to be exposed by the projectors 22. It is important in this context, however, that external mediators of information 24 directly and on their own initiative and communicatively transparent via modem 26 can provide control instructions to the projectors 22 for the information the external adapters 24 want the system 10 to be exposed via the projectors 22. This without the workstations 32, in one embodiment of the invention, being involved in the procedure for transmitting the control instructions to the central computer 28.

The term intermediary (24) of information is to be understood in the present invention in its broadest sense, i.e. not only advertising agencies, but all companies and private individuals who wish to use the system 10 for commercial purposes or for other information affecting the public.

Normally today for a customer of information to be disseminated in public places is that the broker has to wait about two weeks, perhaps longer, before his order can be realized and exposed publicly. With the digital information system 10 according to the present invention, the exposure is carried out in principle in real time, i.e. at the time of ordering, possibly with a short time delay in this context due to processing, fully booked exposure list and other fast-moving events. In addition, external communicators of 24 of information can use the whole day for transmitting information to the system 12, whereby the information can be immediately entered in an exposure list, which is illustrated in more detail below.

The external mediators of information which via modem connect to the control center 12 are in one embodiment connected to the control center 12 via specially designed interfaces (driver means) for data and telecommunications. In this way, only external mediators 24 with the correct interface can transparently connect to the control center 12 to issue control instructions to the projectors 22, which prevents unauthorized persons from having access to provide such information and to misuse the system. The special interface, which is included, for example, in the computers of external intermediaries, then also includes suitable market keys or other codes sent between the control center 12 and the computer of the external intermediary 24 to verify the entitlement to enter control instructions in the central computer 28, without the administrator via the workstations 32 need to supply additional information or permissions in order for the external processors 24 of information to have access to the central computer for transmitting control instructions transparent to the system 10 to the projectors 22.

Furthermore, the present invention comprises that the control center 12 has a communication interface 14 with the computerized means 16, 18, 20 located at changing places or places for coordination and control of the projectors 22.

The figure specifically shows a radio link constituting an interface between the control center 12 and the computerized means 16, 18, 20, which interface is a preferred one, but not necessarily the only possible interface. Other interfaces for transmitting information between the control center 12 and the computerized means 16, 18, 20 may consist of a wired ISDN solution (Intergrated Services Digital Network) or other fixed cables, which have the same capacity.

Specifically, the computerized means 16, 18, 20 in an embodiment of the invention with reference to subway station 1, which constitutes the computerized means 16, consists of a station computer (server) 34 with included or externally connected hard disk 36, the station computer 34 being connected to a number of projector computers 38, here three, which send control information to connected projectors 22, here only one projector is shown. The projector computers 38 are illustrated as PC units with monitors. Via the monitors in computers 38, the information directed to projectors 22 can be monitored and edited by personnel stationed at various locations within the subway station 16, or from a centrally located location. In the present embodiment of the invention, station 2 is denoted by 18 and station 3 is denoted by 20 other metro stations, which are equipped with similar means as the metro station 16, but without showing the projector computers 38 and the projector 22. However, it is assumed that these stations also include the projector computers 38 and at least one projector 22.

In an alternative embodiment of the means 38 or means 38, i.e. the projector computers 38, included in the station computer 34, the projector or projectors 22 are controlled directly from the station computer 34.

In yet another embodiment of the means included in the computerized means 16, 18, 20, the projector 22 is replaced by an electronic display, not shown, such as a large screen in LCD technology, LED technology or the like. The station date 34 is then included in the big screen or connected externally. Preferably, the projector computers 38 are then also included in the station computer 34 and the database 36. Transmission of information from the control center 12 takes place in much the same way as previously described. However, it is possible to address each individual large-screen screen directly via a radio network 14, the screens being controlled from the control center 12 where the redundancy is located. Thus, in the present embodiment, the computerized means 16, 18, 20 constitute an electronic display with control computer 34, the projector 22 constituting the display.

The computerized means 16, 18, 20 may in one embodiment comprise redundancy in the form that all the databases 36 or the hard disks at the stations 16, 18, 20 comprise the same information for controlling projectors 22 or for monitoring the system at a metro station 16, 18. 20. Thus, all information between the station computers 34 and its databases 36 is copied via the communication interface 14 from the central computer 28. This means that a computer station's computerized means for exposing information via projectors 22 is not turned off if one or two of the stations shown in the figure experience a computer or hard disk crash or “power down” in a station computer 34. When powered down in a station computer 34, the communication interface 14 may be connected to a switch that automatically bypasses the station computer so that projectors 22 connected to the computer 34 that has gone down is controlled by one of the station computers 34 that are still in operation (the switch is) not illustrated in fi guren).

Having described the digital information system 10 with respect to hardware and interfaces, a more specific description of the implementation of the present invention is provided to achieve the objects and objects of the invention.

The central computer 28 is in the present invention divided into three powerful servers 1, 2, 3, server 1 receiving material from external mediators 24 of information via modem 26.

Server 2 sends information material to the station computers 34. The same material can be sent to all station computers 34, even if it is only to be displayed on a certain or certain displays.

What is to be exposed and where it is to be exposed will be explained in more detail below.

Server 3 is used for processing information and control instructions from mediator 24 of information, which is described in more detail below.

The central computer 28's server 3 works partly as an exposure manager. The exposure manager 3 performs the important object of the present invention regarding the possibility of an external processor 24, in real time via the modem 26 and the server 1, which receives information material from the external processor for controlling projectors 22, to organize the information to be transmitted to the stations. 16, 18, 20 via an exposure list.

In an embodiment of the invention, a queue is created of the information material received in the server 1 according to a known queuing method such as FIFO (First In First Out), LIFO (Last In First Out) or "Round Robin" etc., wherein the server 3 or the exposure manager 3 has prepared or created an exposure list that occupies time intervals during the day for exposure of information via projectors 22. The exposure manager 3 retrieves and processes, ie assigns information retrieved control instructions for projector control, whereby the operator 24's information is sorted into the exposure list according to the mediator's in the exposure list is available or in alternative locations in the exposure list specified by the intermediary. If the exposure list is completely filled with instructions, the intermediary's instructions to the control center remain according to a preferred queue list in the server 1 to be prepared for later access to the exposure list. 10 15 20 25 30 507 473 9 In one embodiment of the invention, the exposure manager 3 creates or assigns a data message (data field) with header, field for control characters, address field and possibly at least one CRC field (Cyclic Redundacy Code) and possibly status flags, which identifies and connects to the information from an information transmitter 24 and is incorporated into the exposure list in the time interval the information is to be exposed by a projector 22. This is an alternative to inserting the entire information piece from an external transmitter 24 in a specific time interval in the exposure list and allows an exposure list that contains significantly less information, making it easier to manage and speeding up the transfer of the list between computers and databases included in the system.

A data message in the exposure list can here be understood as a control instruction in an instruction field for equipment to projectors 22 of exposure information.

With a data message as above linked to each individual information for exposure, known HASH or reversal methods can efficiently and quickly retrieve information included in the exposure list time interval for exposure.

For communication transmission between external processors 24 of information and the control center 12, a First Class® server can advantageously be used. Each external mediator of information can then send an e-mail with attached information material in any format, which has the advantage that no new software needs to be written for the communication transmission. As mentioned above, there is a built-in security aspect, each external information provider who has an account or subscribes to the system must have a coded driver or a coded driver to connect to the control center 12.

In order for external mediators 24 of information to be able to deliver finished slide shows / films, these should have their own versions of the software used by the exposure manager 3 so that slide shows / films can be entered transparently in the exposure list without processing via the workstations 32 in the control center 12.

Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention there is an alternative to the dynamic update of the exposure list mentioned above, i.e. the external mediators 24 of information not having access to software in the exposure manager are provided with an opportunity to obtain their imagery or exposure material processed by workstation staff. 32, which results in the staff entering via the workstations 32 the information that the external reducer 24 wants to have exposed via control instructions in the exposure manager for controlling projectors 22 via the exposure list created by the manager. The staff at the workstations 32 thus have the opportunity to break any queue lists in the server 1 in order to update the exposure list via the exposure manager with information centrally generated from the control center 12 or with information which is insufficiently processed when it is received by the server 1 from external intermediary 24 of information.

According to the above, external intermediaries 24 of information having access to the exposure program can deliver finished slide shows / films, which can be automatically processed and entered in the exposure list, or possibly that staff administering the workstations 32 pick information from external intermediaries 24 from the queues and process it so it can be entered in the exposure list via the exposure manager 3. In order to be able to distinguish information that must be processed via the workstations, external mediators 24 can mark such transmitted material via a suitable code so that the central computer 28 identifies this material and passes it on to workstations 32 for processing. Alternatively, e-mail is processed and registered as information, which must be processed.

In one embodiment of the invention, it is convenient to provide sensors in close proximity to projectors 22 which detect if any obstacle to exposure prevents projectors 22 from exposing information on screens (not shown). The sensors are in turn connected to projector computers 38 so that its signals can be transmitted to the station computer 34, or that the sensors may be directly connected to station computers 34. The sensors are of the type generally known for detecting existing obstacles, e.g. optical sensors which detects if a light beam is refracted, microphones, electromagnetic transmitters or ultrasonic transmitters with one or fl your receivers etc.

If a sensor (not shown) detects an obstacle between a projector 22 and a screen or other means of exposure, the image display of that projector is stopped during the time the obstacle is present.

Furthermore, a device that is folded in front of the lens of a projector 22 can be activated by the sensor so that dust, dirt or other such does not reach the lens of the projector 22.

In the present embodiment of the invention, the display is for exposure, for example a screen adapted in the size 4200 x 3000 mm, which corresponds to the surface that exists today for a billboard. The canvas can be permanently mounted with a re-foil or other reflective coating or material attached to the surface to increase the brightness. The screens are illuminated, for example, with an overhead projector 22, which is preferably mounted in the subway ceiling with a special fastening device, the optics being specially ground and / or equipped with filters to correct for optical effects such as reflections from the environment and other disturbing lighting. The projectors 22 expose the information material on the screen, whereby as mentioned, when a train enters the platform a guard is turned on in front of the optics to protect against dust and dirt.

Image transfer to displays or bodies for exposure takes place digitally via a specially designed computer program.

All projectors 22 can display individual images or a collective image via all projectors 22 simultaneously.

If the information processor 24 is an advertising agency and the advertisement to be exposed is a slide show, the advertising buyer can buy a number of “spots” that are displayed according to the exposure list. Spots are shown, for example, for 10 seconds, where for example every sixth spot is a spot for the transport company that operates the metro, which spot can be used partly for advertising and partly for information. The advertising buyer can buy spots individually or in special packages, and the digital information system can make a change at short notice or run a completely new spot. The system is thus very flexible and allows rapid changes in what, where and when something is to be exposed on the bodies of exposure.

Computer-produced images or exposures are delivered by external advertising agencies / newspapers, etc. for exposure in, for example, the metro. The images are received by a control center 12, the control center 12 comprising storage media for the information material.

The control center also decides what is to be exposed and in what order and distributes the information material to the metro stations 16, 18, 20. The control center 12 possibly using workstations 32 can check via control routines that for a larger public offensive information that is contrary to "ordre public" or accepted morals are not exposed. Such information can also be prevented via contracts that external intermediaries 24 of information may sign to obtain an account or a subscription.

At the stations, the images or exposures are received by a station computer 34 (station server), each projector 22 having its own projector computer 38 which controls and feeds images to the projector or projectors 22. Projector computers 38 are controlled by the station computer 34.

The communication interfaces 26 between advertising agencies and the control center 12 consist of communication modems 26, modem poles, switches, etc. In the present invention, the interface between the control center 12 and the stations 16, 18, 20 consists of radio transmitters with receivers.

Each means for exposing information, transmitted from the projectors 22, can be controlled individually. The control center 12 sends image packets / information to the Station Computer 34 together with an exposure list. The exposure list includes a series of instructions on what to display, where, when and for how long, etc. The station computer 34 then provides each projector computer 38 with the material to be exposed. The same information material can thus be displayed on all scanners, or that certain screens are selected for specific information exposure. This resource is controlled via the exposure list or directly, in case of urgent need, from the control center 12.

The screens that are obscured by, for example, incoming metro trains must be "switched off" during the time the train is at the station. The synchronization of this is controlled by the station computer 34. In this way, screens that are not obscured can continue to receive exposure information from projectors 22.

In addition to images in various standard formats, such as PICT (Picture Format), EPS (Encapsulated Post Script), TIFF (Tagged Image File Format), etc., the digital information system can also expose Quick Time® movies, video movies and convey audio.

In one embodiment of the resolution, the resolution is 1048 x 680 dpi, which is a standard for advertising agencies for still images and slide shows. Video movies, which can now be recorded directly to a Macintosh® using PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) cards, can also be viewed through the system. For audio via CD or other source, CD quality in stereo, 44 kHz.

Via function control means in the station computer 34, the projector computer 38 reports to the station computer 34 information containing information about the projector address, image number / name as well as the exposure time and time of the exposure. In the event of a fault / failure, the station computer 34 reports to the control center 12. The central computer 28 in turn checks the station computers 34 at regular intervals.

The information material to be exposed is downloaded from the control center 12 to the station computers 34. Since each projector 22 has its own projector computer 34, information material can be sent to the station computer 34 at any time of the day without interfering with exposure at the station 16, 18, 20, and if necessary. the exposure list is changed or stopped for all or some projectors 22 to display specific selected information.

Counters in the computers 34 record in, for example, tables or other registers for each external intermediary 24 of information how long in the time their information has been exposed.

In this way, the retailer 24, if an administrator so considers, only needs to pay for actual information time and not, as now, pay a lump sum for, for example, one week around the clock exposure.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the hardware consists of a number of powerful servers which form a central computer 28, which computer 28 with servers 1, 2, 3 essentially performs tasks as follows. 10 15 20 25 30 507 473 13 Receives material from advertising agencies via eg modem. This is accomplished in server 1.

Sends information material to the station computers 34. The same information material can be sent to all stations even if it is only to be displayed on a certain screen (s). What is to be displayed was determined by the exposure list sent to the stations 16, 18, 20 with the exposure or image material, which takes place via server 2.

The exposure or image material (and other information), exposure list, etc. are prepared by the exposure manager included in server 3 as described above.

Each server 1, 2, 3 preferably has its own set of databases 30, for example external hard drives with sufficient storage capacity. All material is copied between them. This creates redundancy because each exposure or image appears in at least three copies. The copying between the databases 30, 36 can be handled automatically, where each new or changed fi l with information is copied to the other databases.

At stations 16, 18, 20, the information material is received by a station computer 34 (server). The station computer 34 feeds exposures or images to the projector computers 38 according to the exposure list. As mentioned earlier, this server also controls extinguishing when metro trains are at the station as well as control / error reporting to the control center 12.

In summary, the following hardware is needed in the embodiment of the figure; three central servers 1, 2, 3 plus large databases 30, for example three hard drives of 27 GB each. Server 1 is connected via modem to the intermediaries of information and to promote user-friendliness, a First Class® server is proposed in the embodiment.

Furthermore, a number of work machines or workstations 32 connected to the central computer 28 are used for control and communication and processing of exposure or image material, creation of exposure lists by the exposure manager if necessary, etc.

Alternatively, the intermediaries 24 of information possess their own versions of the exposure program used, whereby they can thereby transparently deliver finished slide shows / films. These then do not need to be prepared at the control center 12, but can be dynamically incorporated into the exposure list with the exposure manager.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment a radio system is used with one transmitter and one receiver per station 16, 18, 20, wherein at least two channels should be provided.

A channel for transport of exposure or image material and a channel for communication with the control center 12. In this way, image transmission from the control center 12 does not have to be interrupted for, for example, input of emergency messages or for control reports from the station computers 34. 10 15 20 25 30 507 473 14 The station computers 34 is responsible for communication with the control center 12 and provides the projector computers 38 with information material or exposure material and handles the control routines at the stations 16, 18, 20. The projector computers 38 output images to the projectors 22 and monitor the operation of the projectors 22. Here, the exposure information or images can be output from the station computer 34 in packets. When a package is exposed, it is deleted to make room for the next package. An alternative is to use a computer 34 with sufficient capacity to store all the images to be exposed. However, this presupposes that the entire image mass is output in a sequence, which is too time-consuming to be realistic with today's communication system, which can, however, be a reality in the near future.

Assuming that an image or exposure must not be larger than 10 MB and that ten percent of the material is updated daily, a communication system is needed that can handle transfer speeds of at least 1.75 MB / minute. A wired solution such as ISDN, which in a four-channel version can handle two MB / minute or fixed cables with the same capacity, is an alternative to transmission via radio, but is currently extremely expensive to operate, as the channels must be open 24 hours a day, which means that radio transmission is currently a cost-effective way for the communication interface 14. The transmission speed of the present digital information system is equivalent to 100 Mbits / s, on par with new Ethernetßl solutions. This is preferable for the solution of the present invention, whereby an already developed Ethernet 251 solution at the stations 16, 18, 20 between the station computer 34 and the projector computers 38 can be used.

A prerequisite for this is that all computers 32, 38 can handle PCI-Ethernetlß (Personal Computer Interface) cards, which is the case with all new Power Macintosh? 100 Mbits Ethernet * assumes ideal conditions with minimal interfering magnetic fields, optimal cables, no sharp turns with the cables, etc. Such factors interfere with and reduce the transmission speed, despite these obstacles, the actual brake pad becomes the projector computer's 38 own central SCSI bus (Small Computer System Interface ) to which the projector 22 should be connected. The transfer maximum for today's SCSI buses is around 5-7 MB / s. This means that an image or exposure of 10 MB needs two seconds to be transferred from the station computer 34 to the projector computer 22.

Today's fastest Macintosh® servers can handle clock speeds, with accelerator cards, of around 160 MHz. This is enough to split a Quick Time® movie or video in real time, for example. The computers also have a built-in stereo, 44 kHz, which results in sound with CD quality. Of course, CD-ROMs and Audio-CDs as well as, for example, Kodakßl-photo CD 10 ß '20 25 30 507 473 15 can also be used in the system. Assuming that the images or exposures are on average 10 MB in size, 2500 exposures or images require 25 GB of storage media. For this, for example, external disks can be used. Primarily, this large storage capacity is only needed for the control center 12. The station computer 34 may have a smaller storage capacity and be fed with new material during the day. This is done in such a way that when an image is displayed, the function control reports to the control center 12 on which image is displayed, when and for how long. This image is then deleted.

When a smaller number of images remain, the control center 12 automatically sends the next image or exposure packet. According to the same method, the projector computer 22 can handle even less storage capacity. However, the projector 22 is equipped with a buffer memory for at least two images or exposures. When an image or exposure is displayed, it is discarded, leaving room for the next image transmitted from the station computer 24 during the time image number two is exposed.

This avoids a two-second delay that occurs during the transfer, ie otherwise the screen would be off during that time.

Today's Power Macintoshßl servers meet these requirements. However, the development in terms of server performance is progressing at breakneck speed, which means that one can expect servers with even better performance within a year.

Alternative servers 1, 2, 3 can be SUNP servers or an Alpha® from Digital? Although these operate under UNIX and Windows®, respectively, it does not affect users who can work under MAC OSP. Another important resource for the future is the CopI® AppIeP system, which is expected to be launched this year. The most important benefits are multitasking and Open Transport. Multitasking, for example, allows copying to several different servers while other software is being processed. With a sufficiently powerful server, there is therefore only a need for one to two servers in the control center 12, instead of three servers 1, 2, 3 which is now the case. In addition, a server can serve an entire station means for exposures, screens, screens, wall surfaces, and thereupon the projector computers 38 can be dispensed with, which as mentioned is included in an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Open Transport allows communication via modem with your connected users to the same computer.

In order to achieve an appropriate digital information system according to the present invention, specifically developed software is used for the purpose, which is not described in more detail here. i There are programs on the market today such as Powerpoint ”and similar programs, which will not work well for three reasons. The programs are very large and burden the computers unnecessarily. There are a large amount of resources in these programs that are not needed for viewing 10 15 20 25 30 507 475 16 of images or exposures. To exemplify, advertising exposure also differs greatly from Powerpoint®-type image or display presentations. Powerpoint® thus lacks resources that advertising agencies may want to use. Mainly so-called morphing, which in recent times is increasingly used in advertising, for example in television. Morphing is a procedure where objects, for example, slowly change to shape other objects, such as humans into animals and / or vice versa. The slide shows shown should be able to be presented in a more interesting way than just as a slide show, which is one of the objects achieved with the invention. Here, the boundary area between still images, moving images and fi ch, where the methods overlap, is touched upon. It is also probable that external intermediaries 24 of image or exposure displays want to use sound. Therefore, it is wiser to write specific software that includes the resources that external vendors 24 desire, i.e., refine the software. It will then also be easier to update your own developed program with your own resources in the future.

In this way, the external feeders 24 do not have to be bound to use the Powerpoint® format. They simply deliver images in any format. However, it may be necessary to limit an image or exposure size.

In order to provide the digital information system according to the present invention, it is necessary to have a number of driver means such as communication driver means for transmitting information between external mediators 24 and the control center 12, copying means for copying to the various databases 30, 36, driving means for compiling the image or exposure material to be displayed, exposure managers, driver means for a radio network, control means in the station computer 34 which feeds images or exposures to the projector computers 38 according to the exposure list, function control means in the projector computers 38 and in the station computers 34, driver means interrupting display when a display is shaded for projectors 22 For copying between the different databases, there are existing programs that work well, such as the RetrospectQ Driver means that interrupts the display of exposures when the exposure means is obscured for the projector 22 or vice versa can also be used as "feedback" and monitoring in statistical analyzes by the subway administrator in the present invention, whether trains follow the timetable, which is of interest, among other things, for the design and future updates of the exposure list. This is done via registration in the station computer 34 when an image or exposure display is interrupted. The registration can take place, for example, via interrupt routines for the computer 34. The registration can also trigger a clock (counter, timer) to register the time that a vehicle obscures the screen or the projector 22. 507 473 17 The above-described embodiments of the present invention are not intended to limit the invention as such, but no longer to be perceived as preferred ones. It is the wording of the claims which sets forth further embodiments for the person skilled in the art

Claims (22)

10 15 20 25 30 507 473 18 Patent claims A method of coordinating and controlling projectors in a digital information system (10) for exposing information on at least one means of exposure via at least one projector (22) for each means of exposure, wherein exposure is provided in places (16, 18). , 20) accessible to the public, characterized in that intermediaries (24) of information for exposure with subscriptions are connected to a computerized control center (12) via interfaces for data and telecommunications (26) for transmission of the information for any time on one day, which control center (12) has communication interfaces (14) with computerized means (34, 38) located in connection with said locations (16, 18, 20) for coordination and control of projectors (22), wherein the control center (12) in real-time can create and update an exposure list with instruction fields for control instructions via in-time dynamic booking of information for exposure from intermediaries (24) with driver devices connected to the subscription n, which can be transparent for information transmission with the control center (12)'s driver means for information transmission in the system (10), via interface (26), which exposure list with included control instructions coordinates and controls the projectors (22) as to what is to be exposed, when to be exposed, where it is to be exposed and for how long it is to be exposed and to ensure that each projector (22) independently of other projectors (22) can be controlled to receive the same or different information according to the exposure list for exposure of each projector (22) by the computerized means (34, 38). Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the administrator of the system (10) can at any time update the exposure list with any information, whereby the dynamic booking can be changed or delayed. Method according to claims 1-2, characterized in that the projector (22) interrupts exposure of information when the projector (22) is obscured or its assigned means for exposure is visually inaccessible in the public place. 4. A method according to claims 1-3, characterized in that the lens of the projector is covered by a protective member in the event of a feared or detected presence of such, which risks reaching the lens. Method according to claims 1-4, characterized in that a projector computer (38) is arranged at the projectors (22) which controls and feeds exposures to the projectors (22) controlled by a station computer (34) included in said computerized means (34). , 38), which projector computer has a buffer memory connected, which is topped up with subsequent exposures while the exposure currently controlled in the projector (22) is emptied from the buffer memory. Method according to claims 1-4, characterized in that a projector computer (38) is arranged to a station computer (34) included in said computerized means (38) which controls and feeds exposures to the projectors (22). , which projector computer has a buffer memory connected, which is topped up with subsequent exposures while the exposure currently controlled in the projector is emptied from the buffer memory. Method according to claims 1-6, characterized in that a station computer (34) located at a specific location included in a computerized means comprises databases (36) and that information in the databases (36) concerning exposures in the exposure list is copied in databases of server in any number of computerized bodies (16, 18, 20) located elsewhere. Method according to claims 1-7, characterized in that the exposure list comprises reserved instruction fields for updating with control instructions via the reducer interface (26). 9. A method according to claims 1-8, characterized in that the control instructions are placed in a waiting queue if the exposure list currently lacks instruction fields for updating instructions. Method according to claims 1-9, characterized in that a switch detects if a station computer (34) is out of order, wherein the projectors controlled by the station computer (34) are controlled by a station computer (34) located elsewhere (16). , 18, 20). Method according to claims 3-10, characterized in that interruption in exposure of information when the means for exposure is obscured for the projector (22) or that the projector (22) is obscured is used as "feedback" and monitoring in statistical analyzes of a administrator of the system (10) on whether vehicles follow the timetable. A device for coordinating and controlling projectors in a digital information system (10) for exposing information on at least one exposure means via at least one projector (22) for each exposure means, exposing them in places (16, 18). , 20) available to the public, characterized in that intermediaries (24) of information for exposure with subscriptions are connected to a computerized control center (12) via interfaces for data and telecommunications (26) for transmitting the information at any time of one day, which control center (12) has communication interfaces (14) with computerized means (34, 38) situated in connection with said locations (16, 18, 20) for coordination and control of projectors (22), wherein the control center (12) by a real-time exposure manager (3) can create and update an exposure list with instruction fields for control instructions via in time dynamic booking of information for exposure from intermediaries (24) with to subscriber-connected driver means, which may be transparent for information transmission with the control center (12) of the control center (12) for information transmission in the system (10), via interface (26), which exposure list with included control instructions coordinates and controls the projectors ( 22) in terms of what is to be exposed, when it is to be exposed, where it is to be exposed and for how long it is to be exposed and ensures that each projector (22) can be controlled independently of other projectors (22) to receive the same or different information according to the exposure list for exposing the respective projector (22) through the computerized means (34, 38). Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the administrator of the system (10) can at any time update the exposure list with any information, whereby the dynamic booking can be changed or delayed. Device according to claims 12-13, characterized in that the projector (22) interrupts exposure of information when it is obscured or its assigned means for exposure is visually inaccessible in the public place. Device according to claims 12-14, is covered by a protective means in the event of a feared or detected presence of such, which risks being characterized by the lens of the projector. Device according to claims 12-15, characterized in that a projector computer (38) is arranged to projectors (22) which controls and feeds exposures to the projectors (22) controlled by a station computer (34) included in said computerized means (34). , 38), which projector computer has a buffer memory connected, which is topped up with subsequent exposures while the exposure currently controlled in the projector (22) is emptied from the buffer memory. Device according to claims 12-16, characterized in that a station computer (34) included in said computerized means is arranged a projector computer (38) which controls and feeds exposures to the projectors (22), which projector computer has a buffer memory connected, which is replenished with subsequent exposures while the currently controlled exposure in the projector is emptied from the buffer memory. Device according to claims 12-18, (34) located in a specific place included in a computerized means comprises databases (36) and characterized by attenuation computer that information in the databases (36) concerning exposures in the exposure list is copied in databases of station computer (34) in any number of computerized bodies (16, 18, 20) located elsewhere. 19. Device according to claims 12-18, characterized in that the exposure list comprises reserved instruction fields for updating with control instructions via the intermediary's interface (26). Device according to claims 12-19, characterized in that the control instructions are placed in a waiting queue if the exposure list currently lacks an instruction field for updating instructions. Device according to claims 12-20, characterized in that a switch detects if a station computer (34) is out of order, the projectors controlled by the station computer (34) being controlled by a station computer (34) located elsewhere (16). , 18, 20). Device according to claims 14-21, characterized in that interruptions in exposure of information when the means for exposure or the projector (22) are obscured can also be used as "feedback" and monitoring in statistical analyzes by an administrator of the system (10 ) on whether vehicles follow the timetable.